Norway’s 28-year absence from the World Cup is finally over—thanks largely to the brilliance of Erling Haaland. Heading into the final group clash, the Norwegians were all but mathematically guaranteed qualification, with only an Italy win by nine goals standing between them and the inevitable. But Haaland and his teammates were determined to make a statement in Milan.
Italy got off to a strong start, with Pio Esposito scoring in the 11th minute to give the Azzurri an early lead. They held onto their advantage until just past the hour mark, when Antonio Nusa fired past Gianluigi Donnarumma to level the score at 1-1.
The match’s best moments were still to come. Haaland, in sensational form for both Manchester City and Norway, put his side ahead on 78 minutes. He latched onto a superb pass from second-half substitute Oscar Bobb and lashed the ball into the roof of the net, making it 2-1. Just two minutes later, Haaland struck again with a close-range finish, effectively ending the contest and putting Norway 3-1 up. This marked his 32nd goal of a remarkable campaign.
A minute before the end of normal time, Haaland was substituted, replaced by Jorgen Strand Larsen. The Wolves striker added further pain for Italy in added time, slotting in a smart finish that gave Donnarumma no chance and sealed a resounding 4-1 victory for Norway.
Norway’s return to the World Cup is confirmed—with Haaland leading the way, their prospects have never looked brighter.
https://sports.yahoo.com/article/unstoppable-haaland-double-norway-thrash-221000362.html