Norway produced a historic performance in Oslo. Erling Haaland led the charge with five goals and two assists.
The victory kept Norway on course for a first World Cup appearance in nearly three decades. The team showed ruthless finishing and unrelenting dominance.
Haaland Leads Norway’s Rampage
Erling Haaland wasted no time making an impact. He set up Felix Horn Myhre inside the opening six minutes to give Norway the lead. The Manchester City striker then scored three goals in just over half an hour to put the game beyond Moldova before the break.
His fourth goal arrived early in the second half, underlining his hunger and consistency in front of goal. The fifth came in the 83rd minute, securing his most prolific international performance yet. Notably, Haaland has achieved the feat of scoring five in a match for Manchester City twice before, but this was his first time doing so for his country.
This extraordinary display took his tally in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers to nine. No player has scored more goals at this stage of the competition, proving his pivotal role in Norway’s campaign.
Odegaard and Aasgaard Provide Support
While Haaland (520.21) dominated headlines, he was not Norway’s only star. Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard set up two of his goals, showcasing his vision and composure. He also got on the scoresheet himself just before half-time, providing another reminder of his leadership.
The second-half introduction of Rangers midfielder Thelo Aasgaard added another layer to Norway’s attack. He struck four times, taking advantage of a Moldova side that had long since crumbled. His clinical finishing emphasised the depth and firepower available to coach Stale Solbakken.
Even a Leo Ostigard own goal, which gifted Moldova their only strike, could not spoil the mood. Norway’s dominance ensured that it was little more than a footnote.
Record-Breaking Scoreline
The 11-1 victory was among the most emphatic in European World Cup qualifying history. It equalled the record margin of victory, first set when Macedonia beat Liechtenstein 11-1 in 1996. Norway also came close to their own national record of 12-0, set against Finland in 1946.
This was only the third time Norway have managed 11 goals in one game. The attacking display will be remembered as one of their greatest, especially considering what is at stake. The team now sit six points clear of Italy at the top of Group I. That cushion provides breathing room, but Solbakken will insist that focus remains high.
Haaland’s International Journey
Despite his dominance at the club level, Haaland has not yet appeared at a major international tournament. Norway’s last appearance at the World Cup came in 1998, and their most recent major finals were Euro 2000. That long absence has denied Haaland the chance to showcase his talent on the biggest stage.
He now has 48 goals in 45 international games, an astonishing record for any player. This match also marked his fifth hat-trick for Norway, reinforcing his reputation as one of the world’s deadliest strikers. Every qualifier seems to bring him closer to the history books.
What Lies Ahead for Norway
Norway’s path to Canada, Mexico and the United States in 2026 is becoming clearer. They have won all five of their qualifiers so far, demonstrating both consistency and resilience. Their next fixtures will be against Israel and Estonia, matches where further points are expected.
The real test, however, will likely come against Italy in November. That fixture could decide the group winner. Only the top team secures direct qualification, while the second-placed side must navigate the play-offs. Solbakken’s men know the importance of avoiding that dangerous route.
Momentum is firmly in their favour after this result. The players and supporters will believe that qualification is now within touching distance. Haaland’s presence ensures that Norway have a genuine match-winner for the challenges ahead.
Betting Interest Grows
Such a remarkable performance has also drawn attention in the betting markets. Haaland’s goal-scoring feats have become a regular focus for punters worldwide. Many fans now turn to online sports betting platforms to back him as a scorer in qualifiers.
Norway’s rising form will also make them a popular choice for bettors looking at outright markets. While they remain outsiders compared to established powers, their attacking potential cannot be ignored. Haaland, Odegaard, and Aasgaard give them weapons that few opponents can handle.
