Spalletti Warns Italy of Norway Challenge in World Cup Qualifiers

Italy and Norway face off in a crucial World Cup qualifier match. Find out what the managers are saying ahead of the big game.

Italy manager Luciano Spalletti is emphasizing the importance of Friday's match against Norway, calling it a crucial step in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Spalletti believes his team has the talent and ability to succeed, and they're ready to deliver.

Italy will face a Norwegian side that's off to a strong start in Group I, boasting six points from two matches and an impressive nine goals scored. The match in Oslo will be a significant test for Spalletti's side as they look to make a strong impression in their qualifying campaign.

🗣️ “Sappiamo bene, sia io che i calciatori, dell’importanza della sfida di venerdì. Ci giochiamo molto”

Le parole di Luciano Spalletti in vista del doppio impegno contro Norvegia e Moldova
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— Nazionale Italiana ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri) June 1, 2025

Four-time World Cup champions Italy are looking to end a drought that started in 2014, when they last qualified for the World Cup finals. After a Nations League quarter-final exit against Germany in March, Italy is now focusing on their World Cup qualifiers.

Italy manager Luciano Spalletti emphasized the importance of their upcoming match against Norway, saying, “Let's be clear: in Norway, everything is on the line when it comes to whether or not we'll qualify for the World Cup.”

“We have a duty to fulfil this task that’s been entrusted to us. We need to qualify because it’s absolutely crucial for us.

“As for us, we have everything we need to play our game. We have all the potential for a great match, and that’s exactly what we intend to put into practice.”

🔥🔥🔥

📍 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐨#Nazionale 🇮🇹 #Azzurri #VivoAzzurro pic.twitter.com/qtx30xSnyk

— Nazionale Italiana ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri) June 1, 2025

Norway coach Stale Solbakken shares a similar optimism, but with a different perspective on the favorites. “I'm not sure they're the favourites. For me, it's more of a 50–50 match on our home ground,” Solbakken said. He emphasized the importance of his team staying true to themselves, adding, “The most important thing for us is that we are ourselves.”

The stakes are high, with the outcome of this match potentially shaping Italy's chances for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11th to July 19th next year.