World Cup Qualifying Results: Norway, Czech Republic, and Estonia Secure Wins
Check out the latest scores and results from the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, featuring Norway, Czech Republic, Estonia, and more
Norway delivered a second-half masterclass to overpower Israel 4-2 in their World Cup qualifying clash. The convincing victory marked Norway's third consecutive away win, their longest streak since 2021.
Norway's attacking prowess was on full display, having scored an impressive 14 goals in their previous three matches. The team's confidence was evident from the start, as Alexander Sorloth nearly opened the scoring just two minutes in, his powerful header from Martin Odegaard's corner rattling the Israeli crossbar.
Israel posed a significant attacking threat, having found the back of the net in five consecutive World Cup qualifiers. Manor Solomon nearly continued this streak with a beautifully curled shot that narrowly missed the target.
Norway seized the initiative, however, and took the lead just before halftime. David Moller Wolfe scored his first international goal, cleverly converting Martin Odegaard's pass past Daniel Peretz.
The second half began with a sense of familiarity as Alexander Sorloth again rattled the crossbar with a powerful strike. Israel then regained momentum and equalized in fortuitous circumstances, with Mohammad Abu Fani's shot deflecting off Patrick Berg and into the net.
Norway's response was swift, with Sorloth finally breaking through with his third goal in as many international appearances. He expertly headed in Martin Odegaard's corner, restoring Norway's lead from close range.
The game's decisive moment came with 25 minutes remaining, as Kristoffer Ajer sealed Norway's third goal. Ajer was left unmarked inside the Israeli area, allowing him to control Sander Berge's cross and fire a precise shot into the net.
Erling Haaland put the finishing touches on Norway's dominant display, scoring their fourth goal with a close-range finish in the latter stages. Although Dor Turgeman managed to score a consolation goal in stoppage time, it was too little, too late, and Norway's top spot in Group I remained unchallenged.
Despite mounting a brief second-half comeback, Israel ultimately struggled to contain Norway's potent attack. The loss brought an abrupt end to Israel's two-match winning streak, as Ran Ben Shimon's side was outplayed by Stale Solbakken's dominant Norway team.
Here are the other notable results from the latest round of World Cup qualifying matches:
- The Czech Republic cruised to a 4-0 victory over Gibraltar, showcasing their attacking prowess.
- Kazakhstan secured a hard-fought 2-0 win over Liechtenstein, earning valuable points in their qualifying campaign.
- Montenegro edged the Faroe Islands 1-0, thanks to a narrow but crucial victory.
- North Macedonia and Wales shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw, as both teams earned a point in their qualifying bid.
- Estonia came from behind to defeat Moldova 3-2, in a thrilling and closely contested match.
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