The Norway national team is living a dream that now feels within reach. Ståle Solbakken’s side defeated Estonia 4–1 and now sit just inches away from securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup, a feat the Nordic country hasn’t achieved since France 1998.

With braces from Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth, Norway settled the match in a frantic 12-minute stretch at Ullevaal Stadion. As leaders of Group I, they hold a three-point advantage over Italy and an almost untouchable goal difference (+29), leaving their ticket to the tournament all but guaranteed.

The only scenario that could complicate their path would be an improbable historic thrashing by Italy against Moldova. If that doesn’t occur, Norway will face the Azzurri on Sunday with little more than a formality standing between them and direct qualification.

Offensive Storm and an Unstoppable Haaland

Norway struggled to break the deadlock, but once they did, they overwhelmed Estonia. Sørloth opened the scoring in the 50th minute with a header off a Sander Berge cross, and just two minutes later made it 2–0 thanks to an assist from Julian Ryerson, who also played a key role in the 3–0, setting up Haaland in the 56th minute.

The Manchester City striker completed his brace in the 60th minute, finishing a pass from David Møller Wolfe. Estonia pulled one back through Robi Saarma, but the match had already been decided.

Haaland continues adding to his record-breaking pace: he now has 30 goals this season and 53 goals in 47 appearances for Norway, a staggering figure for a 25-year-old forward.

Nordic Euphoria: Locker Room Erupts After the Win

The final whistle triggered a full-blown celebration inside Norway’s locker room. Music blasting, chants echoing and a fired-up Haaland dancing and shouting a war cry alongside his teammates. The scene captured the emotional peak of a team that knows it is one step away from qualifying without a playoff.

The celebration is justified: Norway would join England and France as the only European sides already confirmed for the World Cup. For a nation that has spent nearly three decades away from football’s biggest stage, the moment is historic.

Unless a football-sized earthquake hits San Siro, Norway and their superstar will have a date with the sport’s elite in 2026. And judging by the locker room energy, they’re ready to enjoy every second of the journey.