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Oslo, June 7, 2025 – Italy’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign got off to a disastrous start as they suffered a 3-0 defeat against a spirited Norway side on Friday. The Italians were completely outplayed in the first half, with goals from Alexander Sørloth, Antonio Nusa, and Erling Haaland giving the hosts a commanding lead.
This emphatic victory puts Norway at the top of Group I with nine points from three matches, while Italy finds itself in fourth position, trailing behind Estonia and Israel. Moldova occupies fifth place.
Donnarumma: “Our fans don’t deserve this”
Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma offered a blunt assessment of the team's performance, admitting there were no excuses for the humiliating loss.
“I have no explanation at the moment. You just have to go inside and realise the performance tonight. Our fans don’t deserve this,” Donnarumma told Rai Sport.
The PSG shot-stopper, who recently won the Champions League, Ligue 1, French Cup, and French Super Cup, stressed that the squad must reflect deeply on their approach moving forward.
“We all have to come out of these games together. We need to examine our conscience. We are Italy, and these matches are not acceptable. We must be more united than before.”
Italy’s World Cup Struggles Continue
The four-time World Cup champions have not qualified for the tournament since 2014, having missed out on both the 2018 and 2022 editions. The loss to Norway has raised fresh concerns about Italy’s ability to return to the world stage under current management.
Spalletti Reacts to Setback
Head coach Luciano Spalletti acknowledged that the team is going through a difficult phase and confirmed that internal discussions would take place regarding the team's future.
“It has to come from us first. We are Italy. These performances are not acceptable,” said Spalletti. “I will be speaking with the Italian Football Federation about the situation.”
What’s Next for Italy?
Italy will next face Moldova at home on Monday, a match that has now become crucial for Spalletti’s side. With qualification at stake and fan frustration mounting, only a strong performance will help restore confidence.