Erling Haaland Hat-Trick Powers Norway to World Cup Qualification Lead

Erling Haaland scored a hat-trick as Norway thrashed Israel 5-0 in a World Cup qualifier at Ullevaal Stadion. Israel’s Daniel Peretz missed two early penalties, while own goals from Anan Khalaili and Idan Nachmias added to Norway’s tally. Haaland now has 51 goals in 46 internationals, moving close to Ronaldo and Messi’s records. Norway leads Group I, aiming for their first World Cup since 1998.

Going to the Ullevaal Stadion, Norway delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over Israel in their UEFA World Cup 2026 qualifying Group I clash, bringing them closer to their first World Cup since 1998. Erling Haaland was the star of the show, scoring a hat-trick in the 27th, 63rd, and 72nd minutes. The game saw early drama as Israel’s goalkeeper Daniel Peretz saved two penalties within the first five minutes, including a retake for encroachment.

Norway opened the scoring in the 18th minute through an own goal by Israeli midfielder Anan Khalaili, followed by another comedic own goal by defender Idan Nachmias a minute later. Haaland added his second with a towering header and completed his treble with a finish from Antonio Nusa’s cross. The Manchester City striker now has 51 goals in 46 international appearances, breaking Harry Kane’s record as the fastest to 50 international goals.

This was Haaland’s sixth international hat-trick, putting him four goals shy of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s joint record in men’s football. Norway leads Group I, while Italy, second in the table, beat Estonia 3-1 and still has a game in hand. Norway will face Estonia at home on 13 November, and the group leaders meet Italy in the final round three days later. The match was also marked by pre-game pro-Palestinian protests in Oslo and increased stadium security.