Arjit - Thursday, Jun 05, 2025Date: June 7 (Friday), 2025
Time: 12:15 AM IST (post midnight)
Venue: Ullevaal Stadium, Oslo, Norway.
Norway vs Italy Match Preview: The FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers will see Norway take on four-time world champions Italy at their home ground. The match is extremely crucial for Group I, as Norway are already at the top of the group with two wins, while Italy are just beginning their qualifying journey.
Norway have had a great start to this qualifying campaign. They have scored 9 goals and conceded only 2 goals in their first two matches. After beating Moldova 5-0, they beat Israel 4-2. The presence of world-class players like Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard has made Norway a strong attacking force. Haaland is scoring goals consistently, and Odegaard is creating games with his brilliant passing and assists. The Norwegian team is unbeaten on their home soil for the past year and have won the last four international matches. They rely heavily on their attack, and their defense may have some weaknesses.
Italy, who failed to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, will not want to make any mistakes this time. Under the leadership of Luciano Spalletti, the team is transitioning to a new, more aggressive style of football. However, their recent result against Germany in the Nations League quarter-finals (5-4 loss on aggregate) has shown some instability in the team. Many of Italy's key players were involved in the Champions League final, and there is a possibility that they may be rested for this match, which will test the depth of the team. Italy have not been able to win in their last three matches (two losses, one draw), which is a matter of concern for them. However, their head-to-head record against Norway has been good, with Italy winning four of the last five meetings.
Norway: Won four matches in a row, including two World Cup qualifiers (Moldova 5-0, Israel 4-2). They have scored 33 goals in the last seven matches, which is more than 4.5 goals per game.
Italy: No wins in the last three matches (3-3 draw with Germany, 1-2 loss to Germany, 1-3 loss to France). They have scored in seven of their last eight matches, with both teams scoring goals.
Overall, Italy have a better record over Norway. In the four qualifiers between the two teams in the 21st century, Italy have won three and drawn one.
Norway: Erling Haaland (Forward, goal-scoring machine), Martin Odegaard (Midfielder, assists and playmaking), Alexander Sorloth (Forward, goal-scoring ability).
Italy: Nicolo Barella (Midfielder, all-round performance), Giacomo Raspadori (Forward, goals and attacking threat), Gianluigi Donnarumma (Goalkeeper, crucial saves).
Safe Option: Erling Haaland (Strongest contender for goals).
Risky Option: Martin Odegaard (Assists and midfield control), Giacomo Raspadori (He will be crucial if Italy scores).
Both teams will score goals: Norway has a strong attack, and Italy is also capable of scoring goals. "Both Teams to Score" could be a good option.
Over 2.5 Goals: Norway have scored a lot of goals in recent matches. More goals are likely in this match as well.
Italy have some injuries in their defence, which could benefit Norway's attackers.
Although Italy has a strong history and squad, Norway's recent form and home ground advantage make them a strong contender. Erling Haaland's form and the team's attacking prowess give Norway the edge. Italy have struggled with injuries and recent results, and their defensive weaknesses could create opportunities for Norway.
This match is certainly going to be exciting, with both teams going all out for a win. Norway will want to maintain their lead, while Italy will want to make a positive start to their World Cup campaign.
Also Read: SCO vs NED ड्रीम11 टीम, भविष्यवाणी, पिच रिपोर्ट और फैंटेसी क्रिकेट टिप्स
