SOGNSVEIEN: Norway moved within touching distance of their first FIFA World Cup appearance since 1998, following a commanding 4–1 victory over Estonia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at Ullevaal Stadium on Thursday.

With captain Martin Ødegaard sidelined due to injury, Erling Haaland took charge of the team and delivered a decisive second-half performance. Norway endured a frustrating opening 45 minutes, leaving the pitch to boos from the home crowd after a goalless first half.

The match turned dramatically after the break. Alexander Sørloth broke the deadlock just five minutes into the second half and quickly added a second. Haaland followed with a clinical brace of his own, with Norway netting four goals in just twelve minutes, effectively sealing the contest.

Estonia pulled one back in the 64th minute through Robi Saarma, but it served only as consolation.

Midfielder Morten Thorsby highlighted the leadership growth of Haaland and Ødegaard, praising their evolving influence over the squad.

“They have gained a better understanding of the impact they have on the rest of us,” Thorsby said. “What they say, what they do, and how they act—everything spreads.”

The win puts Norway three points clear at the top of Group I, ahead of second-placed Italy, whom they will face in a crucial showdown in Oslo on Sunday. For Italy to snatch the automatic qualification spot, they would need to beat Norway and overturn a staggering 17-goal deficit, making a March playoff the far more realistic path for the reigning European champions.

With momentum, form, and mathematics all in their favour, Norway now stand on the brink of securing their long-awaited return to the world’s biggest football stage.