Erling Haaland netted three goals and surpassed 50 international strikes in record fashion as Norway defeated Israel 5-0 on Saturday, moving within reach of their first World Cup appearance since 1998.
The victory keeps Norway at the top of Group I with a nine-point cushion over second-place Italy, though the Italians have two matches remaining and were scheduled to face Estonia later that day. Norway has not competed at a major tournament since Euro 2000.
The result strengthens Norway’s position as they pursue qualification for next year’s tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Their campaign continues November 13 against Estonia before concluding with a decisive clash against Italy three days afterward.
The Manchester City forward leads all European qualifying scorers with 12 goals. He also set a new benchmark in men’s international football by becoming the fastest player to score 50 goals for his nation. Haaland now has 51 goals in just 46 appearances for Norway, breaking the previous record held by England captain Harry Kane, who needed 71 matches to reach the milestone.
Before kickoff at Ullevaal Stadium, hundreds gathered for a pro-Palestinian demonstration. Protesters chanted slogans and voiced opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza, according to reports from journalists on site. Lise Klaveness, president of the Football Association of Norway, recently stated she supports sanctions against Israel.
The match began with drama as Haaland saw his initial penalty saved by Israeli goalkeeper Daniel Peretz. Officials ordered a retake due to encroachment in the box, but Peretz again denied Haaland after the striker switched directions with his second attempt.
Norway broke through in the 18th minute when Anan Khalaili put the ball into his own net. Haaland then extended his scoring streak to nine consecutive international matches with Norway’s second goal.
The hosts added a third within seconds of Israel’s restart in the 28th minute. Peretz kicked the ball off teammate Idan Nachmias, who was being pressed by Haaland, sending it into the net for another own goal. Nachmias subsequently left the match injured after colliding with the goalpost.
Haaland powered home a header from Antonio Nusa’s delivery in the 63rd minute for his second goal. He completed his sixth international hat-trick with another header 18 minutes from time.
In other qualifying action, Hungary defeated Armenia 2-0 in Group F. The result means Portugal could secure qualification with consecutive victories over the Republic of Ireland at home on Saturday and Hungary on Tuesday.
