With high expectations for the Norwegian national team, fans are eagerly anticipating Erling Haaland‘s performance as Norway face Italy in a pivotal UEFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match. The possibility of Norway returning to the World Cup final stage hinges on this decisive encounter.

Unsurprisingly, Erling Haaland will take the field today for Norway vs Italy in the World Cup Qualifiers. The Norwegian superstar was instrumental in his country’s last match, contributing two crucial goals in Norway’s 4-1 win over Estonia, bringing his total to 14 during the World Cup Qualifiers.

One key factor in Norway‘s favor against Italy today is their significant goal advantage. They can afford to lose or draw, provided the loss does not exceed a nine-goal difference, meaning their spot in the World Cup Group stage is within touching distance.

Italy, aware of the challenging scenario, are holding onto hopes of a miracle to secure a direct qualification to the next World Cup, following their last appearance in Brazil 2014, where they exited in the group stage against Costa Rica and Uruguay. However, chances are that the Azzurra have to settle with a playoff spot, as an Italy win against Norway could have the same impact of a draw or loss unless they pull off a truly comprehensive victory at San Siro.

Italy vs. Norway lineups

Italy and Norway are expected to give it their all in this high-stakes match. For Norway, Haaland and Alexander Sorloth are set to lead the charge, while Italy will be captained by Gianluigi Donnarumma, also in charge of stopping Norway’s powerful attack.

Italy’s lineup:

  • Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
  • Defenders: Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Macini, Alessandro Bastoni, Federico Dimarco
  • Midfielders: Matteo Politano, Manuel Locatelli, Nicolo Barella, Davide Fratessi
  • Forwards: Mateo Retegui, Sebastiano Esposito

Norway’s lineup:

  • Goalkeeper: Orjan Nyland
  • Defenders: David Moller Wolfe, Torbjorn Heggem, Kristoffer Ajer, Julian Ryerson
  • Midfielders: Antonio Nusa, Patrick Berg, Sander Berge, Kristian Thorstvedt
  • Forwards : Alexander Sorloth, Erling Haaland