Erling Haaland netted a stunning hat-trick to surpass 50 international goals in record time as Norway thrashed Israel 5-0 on Saturday, moving a step closer to qualifying for their first World Cup since 1998.
The victory puts Norway firmly atop Group I, nine points ahead of second-placed Italy, who have two games in hand and face Estonia later on Saturday. The Scandinavians could secure qualification for next year’s World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with a win over Estonia on Tuesday—provided Italy fail to win either of their remaining matches against Estonia or Israel.
Manchester City’s prolific striker, Haaland, now leads all European qualifiers with 12 goals and has become the fastest player in men’s international football to reach 50 goals, achieving the feat in just 46 appearances. He now sits on 51 goals for Norway, breaking the record previously held by England’s Harry Kane, who reached the milestone in 71 matches.
Before kick-off, hundreds gathered outside Oslo’s Ullevaal Stadium for a pro-Palestinian demonstration, chanting “Free Palestine” in protest against Israel’s actions in Gaza. Norwegian FA president Lise Klaveness recently called for Israel to face sanctions.
On the pitch, Haaland initially saw his penalty saved twice by Israeli goalkeeper Daniel Peretz after an encroachment forced a retake. But Norway took the lead in the 18th minute through an own goal by Anan Khalaili, and Haaland quickly made amends, scoring in his ninth consecutive international match.
Moments later, Israel conceded another own goal when Peretz’s clearance rebounded off Idan Nachmias into the net, with the defender later substituted after colliding with the post.
Haaland struck again in the 63rd minute with a towering header from Antonio Nusa’s cross before completing his hat-trick 18 minutes from time.
Elsewhere, Hungary defeated Armenia 2-0 in Group F, meaning Portugal could book their place at the World Cup with consecutive wins over the Republic of Ireland and Hungary.
