sevendayweekender – Italy suffered a heavy 3-0 loss to Norway in their opening 2026 World Cup qualifier, a result that stunned fans and raised urgent questions about the team’s direction. The Azzurri, managed by Luciano Spalletti, were overwhelmed in the first half by an energized Norwegian side in Oslo. Goals from Alexander Sorloth, Antonio Nusa, and Erling Haaland sealed the emphatic win before halftime.
The defeat leaves Italy in a precarious position in Group I. With just one match played, they sit fourth behind Norway, Israel, and Estonia. However, they have two games in hand due to their participation in the Nations League. Still, the performance offered little optimism, especially with a squad that Spalletti had personally assembled and backed.
Norway dominate early as Haaland and Odegaard shine
Norway struck first in the 12th minute when Alexander Sorloth finished off a quick counterattack that caught the Italian defense off guard. Minutes later, Antonio Nusa capitalized on another defensive lapse, doubling the lead. Italy appeared disorganized and failed to respond with any meaningful pressure.
Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard orchestrated Norway’s third, delivering a precise through-ball to Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. Haaland made no mistake, slotting past Gianluigi Donnarumma to make it 3-0. The Italian defense had no answers, and their midfield struggled to retain possession. Norway’s intensity and cohesion left Italy reeling by halftime.
Spalletti takes responsibility and calls for improvement
Following the match, Italy coach Luciano Spalletti admitted his team was in a “difficult moment.” Speaking to RAI Sport, Spalletti took full responsibility for the performance, saying he stood by the squad he selected. He emphasized the need for technical and mental improvements, particularly in possession.
“We need to improve in certain aspects,” Spalletti said. “We cannot give advantages to the opponents by gifting the ball.” He acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and stressed that the only solution was to face the problems head-on. Talking to Sky Sport Italia later, he reiterated the sense of urgency and concern within the camp.
Donnarumma calls performance unacceptable and demands accountability
Italy captain Gianluigi Donnarumma expressed deep frustration after the loss, calling the display “unacceptable.” The Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper said there was no clear explanation for the collapse but insisted the team owed better to their supporters.
“Our supporters don’t deserve this kind of match,” Donnarumma told reporters. “We need to do some soul-searching.” His remarks reflected a broader sense of disbelief within the squad. Donnarumma urged the team to regroup quickly as they prepare to face Moldova in their next qualifier.
Italy look to rebound against Moldova as pressure builds
Italy’s next match is against Moldova, who are currently bottom of Group I with zero points from two matches. The fixture presents an opportunity for Italy to restore confidence and secure their first points. However, pressure is mounting on both players and coaching staff after another shaky start to a World Cup campaign.
Italy’s recent history in World Cup qualifying has been disappointing, with the team missing out on both the 2018 and 2022 tournaments. The defeat to Norway adds to that sense of unease, and anything less than a convincing win over Moldova will likely deepen the crisis. The next match is set for Monday, offering Italy a chance to begin turning their campaign around.
