Norway wrote a new chapter in their football history after overturning a halftime deficit to thrash Italy 4–1 in Milan, sealing their first FIFA World Cup qualification since 1998. It was a match loaded with grit, resilience, and moments of pure brilliance—especially from the unstoppable Erling Haaland.
For Kenyan football enthusiasts who love a good underdog story, this clash served all the ingredients: tension, tactical twists, and late-match fireworks.
A Nervy First Half for Norway
Ståle Solbakken’s men arrived in Milan buzzing with confidence, knowing they were only a step away from ending a 28-year World Cup drought. But Italy, desperate and under pressure due to their recent qualification woes, came out roaring.
Their early aggression paid off in the 11th minute when Federico Dimarco slipped a clever ball to Francesco Esposito, who spun sharply before slipping his shot under Ørjan Nyland. Italy dominated possession afterward, but wasted several chances—something they would deeply regret.
At halftime, Norway were lucky to trail by just one. But what followed was a masterclass in character and tactical adjustment.
Norway’s Second-Half Renaissance
The visitors returned with new intent. Alexander Sørloth and Kristian Thorstvedt came close early on, signaling a shift in momentum. Norway’s persistence finally paid off in the 63rd minute when the electric Antonio Nusa darted into the box and lashed a superb strike past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The equalizer awakened the Norwegians and rattled the Italians. The pace rose. The stadium vibrated with tension.
But the real twist was still to come.
Haaland Turns the Game on Its Head
For 78 minutes, Italy had kept Haaland unusually quiet. Then he erupted.
First, he volleyed home a stunning goal from Oscar Bobb’s inch-perfect cross. Moments later, he doubled the lead with his trademark composure—an outside-of-the-foot finish that sent Norwegian fans into delirium.
Two goals. Two minutes. Destruction.
With Italy stunned and desperate, Norway pushed one last time. In stoppage time, substitute Jørgen Strand Larsen weaved through the Italian defence to score a brilliant solo goal, sealing a historic 4–1 victory.
Why This Win Matters for Norway
- First World Cup qualification since 1998
- Validation for a golden generation led by Haaland, Odegaard, Nusa, Bobb & Co.
- Statement victory away against one of Europe’s historic giants
- A psychological boost heading into the tournament
This triumph wasn’t just a win—it was a resurrection.
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Final Thoughts
Norway’s 4–1 triumph over Italy will go down as one of the biggest qualification shocks in modern football. From Nusa’s explosive equalizer to Haaland’s rapid-fire brace, the match embodied everything fans adore about the beautiful game.
For Kenya’s vibrant football community, this is the kind of story that keeps passion alive—a reminder that in football, anything is possible. And as the World Cup approaches, Norway will be a team to watch.
