×
App Icon
The Standard e-Paper
Join Thousands of Readers
★★★★ - on Play Store
Download Now

Haaland's Norway thump sorry Italy to reach first World Cup since 1998

Vocalize Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Vocalize

Norway's captain Erling Braut Haaland and Julian Ryerson celebrates their victory at the end of the FIFA World Cup 2026 European qualifier vs Italy at the San Siro Stadium, in Milan, on November 16, 2025. [Alberto PIZZOLI / AFP]

Norway qualified for their first World Cup since 1998 after Erling Haaland struck again in a 4-1 thumping of Italy on Sunday which sealed a spot in next summer's finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Haaland scored the decisive brace in the space of seconds at a soaking San Siro for Norway, who completed Group I with a perfect 24 points from their eight qualifying matches.

Premium Article

Get Full Access for Ksh299/Week.

Uncover the stories others won't tell. Subscribe now for exclusive access.
Continue Reading  →
What you get
  • Unlimited access to all premium content
  • Ad-free browsing experience
  • Mobile-optimised reading
  • Weekly newsletters & digests
Pay via
M - PESA
VISA
Airtel Money
Secure Payments Kenya's most trusted newsroom since 1902
By Kazungu Koome 13 mins ago
Sports
Kenya's Afcon dream is under threat as FKF officials fight
By Stephen Rutto 21 mins ago
Sports
Kenyans now shift focus to Commonwealth Games after shining at Africa meet in Accra
By Ochieng Oyugi 31 mins ago
Sports
New motorsports body up and running with autocross action at Stoni Athi
Sports
Fight for survival now down to one team as Bidco, Sofapaka relegated