Erling Haaland World Cup qualification confirmed as Norway beat Italy 4-1, ensuring their first tournament appearance since 1998

Erling Haaland World Cup qualification was confirmed on Sunday as Norway thrashed Italy 4-1 at the San Siro, securing their first World Cup appearance since 1998.

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Haaland scored a decisive brace in the 78th and 79th minutes, sealing a perfect qualifying campaign with 24 points from eight matches in Group I.

Italy had taken the lead in the 11th minute through Pio Esposito, but Antonio Nusa’s thunderous equaliser in the 63rd minute shifted the momentum.

Haaland then struck twice in quick succession, and Jorgen Strand Larsen capped the rout with a brilliant stoppage-time goal.

The Manchester City striker, who scored 16 goals during qualifying, continues to average over a goal per game for club and country this season.

He will be a key player to watch in the World Cup next summer in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Italy, finishing six points behind Norway, will head to the play-offs in March.

Despite improved performances under Gennaro Gattuso, the Azzurri lack a player of Haaland’s calibre, highlighting the challenge of competing at the highest level.

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Norway’s return marks a historic moment, with Haaland following in the footsteps of his father, Alf-Inge, who was an international player when Norway last qualified 27 years ago.