Norway took a step closer toward their first World Cup appearance since 1998 with an emphatic 11-1 victory over Moldova in a World Cup 2026 qualifier. The win was fueled by an incredible five-goal performance from striker Erling Haaland and four goals from substitute Thelo Aasgaard, moving Norway six points clear at the top of their qualifying group.
Erling Haaland was in supreme form, netting five goals in a single match for his country for the first time in his career. The 25-year-old Manchester City striker scored three goals in the first half alone and finished with a total of five, taking his tally in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers to nine goals, more than any other player. Two of Haaland's goals were assisted by Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard, who also scored a goal of his own just before the break.
The victory was a historic one for Norway, as their 11-goal total equals the record for the highest winning margin in a European World Cup qualifying match. Thelo Aasgaard's impressive performance off the bench saw him score four second-half goals, ensuring the team's attack continued even after the early goals. Moldova's only goal of the match was an own goal by Norway's Leo Ostigard, meaning all 12 goals were scored by Norwegian players.
With this win, Norway maintains a perfect record in Group I, having won all five of their qualifying matches. They now sit six points ahead of second-placed Italy, who have a game in hand. Only the group winners are guaranteed a spot in the 2026 World Cup, with the runners-up entering the play-offs. Norway's next matches are against Israel and Estonia, with a potential group decider against Italy scheduled for November 16.
This victory brings Norway closer to a major international tournament for the first time since Euro 2000. For a generation of Norwegian football fans, seeing a team with world-class players like Haaland and Odegaard on the biggest stage would be a dream come true. The win against Moldova not only boosted their standings but also demonstrated the team's firepower and potential to compete with Europe's elite.