Date: Friday, June 6, 2025
Venue: Ullevaal Stadion, Oslo
Kick-off: 18:45 GMT / 20:45 CET
Group: UEFA World Cup Qualifiers 2026 – Group I
This pivotal Group I clash marks Italy’s long-awaited return to World Cup qualifying action after missing the last two tournaments . The Azzurri, under Luciano Spalletti, face a Norway side already cruising at the top of the group with maximum points from two matches . For Italy, failure to secure a result here could reignite fears of another World Cup absence, while Norway aims to solidify their status as dark horses for qualification.
Norway’s Ascent: The hosts enter this fixture in scintillating form, having won four consecutive matches, including a 5-0 demolition of Moldova and a 4-2 victory over Israel . Erling Haaland (2 goals in qualifiers) and Alexander Sørloth (2 goals) lead a revitalized attack, while their defensive solidity (1.2 goals conceded per game) underlines their balance . At home, Norway boasts a perfect record this year, averaging 3.25 goals per match .
Italy’s Rebuild: The Azzurri, fresh from a Nations League quarterfinal exit to Germany, are winless in their last three outings but remain resilient on the road . Spalletti’s side must address defensive vulnerabilities (1.6 goals conceded per game) while leveraging tactical nous to neutralize Haaland.
Potential Starting Line-ups
Norway (4-4-2): Nyland; Ryerson, Ostigard, Ajer, Wolfe; Odegaard, Berge, Berg, Schjelderup; Sorloth, Haaland.
Italy (3-5-2): Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Gatti, Bastoni; Cambiaso, Barella, Ricci, Tonali, Udogie; Raspadori, Retegui.