Norway ended their World Cup qualifying campaign in style, sweeping aside Italy 4-1 to cap off a truly remarkable run. But the big question now looms: are they capable of achieving the unthinkable and lifting football’s most coveted prize?

With Sunday’s (November 16) victory over four-time World Cup winners Italy at the San Siro, Norway booked their place in the tournament for the first time since 1998. They topped their group with an unbeaten record—eight wins from eight—sending a clear signal that Norwegian football is back on the map.

Italy drew first blood through Pio Esposito, but that early goal only delayed the inevitable. From then on, Norway dominated, showcasing a blend of skill, pace, and unshakeable confidence that left the home fans stunned.

The Erling Haaland Factor

Norway’s biggest weapon is also one of the world’s deadliest forwards. Erling Haaland has been sensational, netting 16 goals in just eight qualifying games—a tally that matches Robert Lewandowski’s record for a World Cup qualifying campaign. At club and country level, he has already scored 32 goals this season alone, bringing his international tally to 55 in just 48 appearances, 22 more than any other Norwegian in history.

Despite Haaland joking in an earlier interview with Time that Norway had only a 0.5% chance of winning, he has been the driving force behind the country’s optimism. Even if the worst happens and Haaland misses the tournament, Norway can rely on the equally capable Alexander Sorloth to step in.

Young Talent Stepping Up

One of the most exciting aspects of this Norway squad is its youth. With an average age of just 25.8, the team is brimming with energy and potential. Wingers Antonio Nusa and Oscar Bobb have been standout performers.

Nusa, 20, recently scored the equalizer against Italy with a calm finish beyond Gianluigi Donnarumma, marking his sixth international goal in just two years. Meanwhile, Bobb, 22, is finally getting regular minutes at Manchester City following a serious leg injury and provided the assist for Haaland’s opener. These youngsters are fearless and ready to make their mark on football’s biggest stage.

Defensive Solidity

Norway’s attack has grabbed the headlines, but their defence has been equally impressive. Stale Solbakken’s side conceded only five goals across the qualifiers, finishing with a remarkable goal difference of +32.

Central midfielders Sander Berge and Patrick Berg provide a tireless shield for the defence, but the real backbone lies in the centre-back pairing of Kristoffer Ajer and Torbjorn Heggem. Ajer, the more experienced of the two, excelled with 23 duels won, nine tackles, 36 recoveries, and six interceptions over eight games. Heggem matched him with equally impressive stats, forming one of the most reliable defensive partnerships in European football.

Verdict

Norway may not yet be counted among the heavyweights like England, Spain, or France, but they have everything a dark horse needs: world-class talent, youthful energy, and tactical discipline. With a favorable draw and a bit of luck, this Norwegian team could surprise the world.