Portugal and Norway Seal 2026 World Cup Qualification as Italy Faces Playoffs

On November 16, 2025, Portugal and Norway secured their places for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a significant achievement in European qualifiers. Portugal stamped their authority with a stunning 9-1 victory over Armenia, ensuring their seventh consecutive World Cup appearance. Despite their star Cristiano Ronaldo being suspended, the team excelled with outstanding performances from Renato Veiga, Goncalo Ramos, Joao Neves, and Bruno Fernandes. Meanwhile, Norway stunned Italy with a 4-1 comeback win in Milan, their first World Cup qualification since 1998, propelled by Erling Haaland's two decisive goals.

Italy, the four-time world champions, started strong with a goal by Franceso Pio Esposito but were overwhelmed in the second half. Antonio Nusa equalized for Norway, followed by Haaland's quick double and a stoppage-time goal from Jørgen Strand Larsen. This loss left Italy second in the group, requiring them to enter playoffs in March. They now face an uncertain path alongside teams like Ireland and Ukraine, who have also reached playoffs.

Norway's undefeated run with 24 points highlights their resurgence, while Italy, coached by Gennaro Gattuso, risks missing a World Cup for the third consecutive time. Other qualifiers such as England and France also secured their spots comfortably, with England maintaining a perfect record and France winning without Kylian Mbappé.

These developments solidify Portugal and Norway's World Cup presences while casting doubt on Italy's direct qualification hopes, intensifying the playoff lottery looming ahead.