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On Saturday, Norwegian striker Erling Haaland scored a hat-trick, pushing his international goal count past 50 and leading Norway to a dominating 5-0 win over Israel, which significantly boosts their chances for a first World Cup appearance since 1998.
The Scandinavians, who have not played at a major tournament since Euro 2000, now top Group I by nine points ahead of second-placed Italy, who have two games in hand and face Estonia later on Saturday.
Norway can secure qualification for next year’s finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with a win over Estonia on Tuesday if Italy fail to beat either Estonia or Israel in their remaining matches.
Haaland, who has 12 goals in European qualifying this campaign, became the fastest player in men’s international football to reach 50 goals, reaching 51 strikes in just 46 appearances.
England captain Harry Kane had previously held the record, achieving 50 goals in 71 matches.
The match at Ullevaal Stadium was preceded by a pro-Palestinian demonstration, with hundreds of people chanting “Free Palestine” in protest against Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Norwegian Football Association head Lise Klaveness has recently advocated for sanctions against Israel.
Haaland’s night began with a penalty saved by Israel goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, who also denied his retaken spot-kick following encroachment.
Norway opened the scoring in the 18th minute through an own goal by Anan Khalaili, before another Israeli own goal, caused under pressure from Haaland, doubled the lead just seconds after kickoff in the 28th minute.
Israel’s Idan Nachmias, involved in the incident, was forced off injured after colliding with the post.
Haaland added his second goal in the 63rd minute, heading in a cross from Antonio Nusa, and completed his hat-trick with 18 minutes remaining.
The win marked Haaland’s ninth consecutive international appearance with a goal.
Elsewhere in qualifying, Hungary defeated Armenia 2-0 in Group F, leaving Portugal in a position to secure qualification with victories over the Republic of Ireland at home on Saturday and Hungary on Tuesday.
