Italy trail behind Norway in World Cup qualifying after a 3-0 defeat
From a dismal start to a win-or-bust scenario 🏀 Italy's national soccer team has found itself in hot water after a disastrous opening match in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. In Norway, the Azzurri left the field with a humiliating 3-0 defeat. With Alexander Sörloth (14'), Antonio Nusa (34'), and Erling Haaland (42') sealing the victory for the hosts, Italy's hopes for a direct ticket to the finals are hanging by a thread.
Trash talk from OFB boss Proell: "I'm the dumpster of the ÖFB" 🚯 Haaland's 41st goal in his 42nd international match marked the end of a strong, efficient first half, during which Italy was caught napping three times. Even in the second half, the four-time world champion failed to impress, and Norway almost managed a 4-0 win. With two consecutive World Cup misses, coach Luciano Spalletti's team is under intense pressure.
More than just football: "We're playing for the state and the nation"⚔️ There's no room for error at home against Moldova on Monday. With Moldova being the only team ranked lower than Italy, a loss could have severe consequences for the team. Before that, Israel (6 points) and Estonia (3) are expected to be easier opponents. In a positive note, Israel defeated Estonia 3-1 away, with Salzburg's Oscar Gloukh contributing to the winning effort.
Ex-ÖFB player Ivanovic, double scorer
💥 Croatia put on a goal-scoring exhibition, defeating minnow Gibraltar 7-0 in Faro, Portugal. Aside from Andrej Kramaric's (77', 79') brace, Franjo Ivanovic, a native Tyrolean and former ÖFB U15 player, scored his first and second goals (60', 63') for Croatia in his third A-international appearance. In Pool L, Czech Republic secured their third consecutive win with a 2-0 home victory over Montenegro and will face Croatia in Osijek on Monday.
A draw for Belgium, North Macedonia leading Group J
🎟️ Belgium had to settle for a 1-1 draw in their opening match against North Macedonia. Although field superiority and a goal from Maxim De Cuyper (28') proved beneficial, a late equalizer (87') by Ezgjan Alioski meant that the points were shared. North Macedonia now leads Group J with 4 points, along with Wales, leaving Belgium needing a win to stay in contention. North Macedonia will host Belgium on Monday.
- Despite Italy's loss, the focus shifts to sports-analysis as they face Moldova, with victory crucial to revive their World Cup hopes.
- In a bundle of goals, Franjo Ivanovic, a former ÖFB U15 player, scored twice for Croatia, highlighting the excitement of sports as they prepare for their clash with the Czech Republic.
