Erling Braut Haaland raised his goal tally to 55 goals in 48 international games in Norway’s 4-1 victory over Italy with two goal contributions from Nusa and Strand Larsen. This victory secures a spot for the Norwegians in next summer’s World Cup, their first time appearing in the tournament in 28 years.
Italy finish second in their after suffering the shocking defeat to Norway at the San Siro Stadium in Milan with their lone goal coming from Francesco Pop Esposito in the 11th minute. This victory also marks Norway’s first win against Italy in 25 years.
Match Summary
The hosts started on the front foot with their early intent being rewarded in the 11th minute as Federico Dimarco’s pass fell through to Crancesco Esposito who turned sharply in the box and finished through the body of Ørjan Nyland.
Which much intent on building on the lead, Italy maintained dominant with plenty of the plays on the visitors’ half. They had several clear-cut chances with Esposito directing one of such chances wastefully as his header was sent wide off target.
Trailing by just one goal, the visitors showed determination to turn the game around as Alexander Sørloth and Kristian Thorstvedt embodied their intent, making amends for a poor first half. Norway continued to push for an equaliser which came in the 63rd minute through Antonio Nusa who drove into the box and fired at the near post beyond Gianluigi Donnarumma.
This leveler gave rise to a thrilling final 25 minutes at Milan as Donnarumma denied Nusa a second only for the efforts of Dimarco and Esposito to be thwarted at the other end. Haaland then stepped up to give Norway the lead in the 78 minute and went on to extend this lead a minute later (79 minute).
Italy tried to regain some level of control over the game but the visitors were unrelenting and ended up getting a fourth in stoppage time through substitute Jorgen Strand Larsen.
Upcoming fixtures
Italy will head over to the interconfederation playoffs which will be drawn up later.
Norway will await the draws for the World Cup.
