Haaland Hits Hat-Trick as Norway Crush Israel 5-0, Move Closer to First World Cup Since 1998

Erling Haaland continued his remarkable scoring form with a hat-trick as Norway thrashed Israel 5-0 in Oslo on Saturday, bringing the Scandinavians within touching distance of qualifying for their first FIFA World Cup since 1998.

The Manchester City striker made history by surpassing 50 international goals in record time, reaching 51 goals in just 46 appearances — faster than any male player in history. The previous record was held by England captain Harry Kane, who achieved the milestone in 71 games.

Norway, who last appeared at a major tournament during Euro 2000, now top Group I, nine points clear of second-placed Italy, who have two matches in hand and face Estonia later on Saturday.

The Norwegians can seal qualification for the 2026 World Cup, to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with a win against Estonia on Tuesday — provided Italy fail to win either of their next two fixtures against Estonia or Israel.

Haaland also leads the European qualifying goal charts with 12 goals, cementing his status as the continent’s most prolific striker in the campaign.

The game, however, was played amid political tension. Ahead of kickoff, hundreds of protesters gathered outside Ullevaal Stadium, chanting “Free Palestine” and condemning what they described as Israel’s “genocide” in Gaza. Norwegian Football Association president Lise Klaveness recently stated she was advocating for Israel to be sanctioned.

On the pitch, Haaland’s afternoon began with frustration as his early penalty was saved by Israeli goalkeeper Daniel Peretz — twice, after the first was retaken for encroachment.

Norway took the lead in the 18th minute through an own goal from Anan Khalaili, before Haaland doubled the advantage moments later with a powerful finish after racing clear of the defence.

A second own goal came just 10 minutes later when Peretz’s clearance struck defender Idan Nachmias and deflected into the net, making it 3-0. Nachmias was later substituted after colliding painfully with the post.

Haaland headed home his second in the 63rd minute from Antonio Nusa’s cross, and completed his hat-trick 18 minutes from time with another precise header.

Elsewhere in European qualifying, Hungary defeated Armenia 2-0 in Group F, while Portugal could clinch qualification with wins over the Republic of Ireland and Hungary in their upcoming fixtures.

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