Italy’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign kicks off at Oslo’s Ullevaal Stadium against Group I leaders Norway this Friday. After a disappointing performance in Euro 2024, Luciano Spalletti has a critical opportunity to regain glory as Gli Azzurri target their first World Cup appearance since 2014.
Securing a **winning start** is essential for Italy—especially following their UEFA Nations League exit against Germany in March. However, off-field controversies, particularly the withdrawal of seasoned defender Francesco Acerbi, loom large over their preparations. Acerbi cited a **’lack of respect’** as the reason for his exit, leading to a heated response from Gianluigi Buffon, who implied that Acerbi has **’said no to all of Italy’** via Calciomercato. This internal strife could prove detrimental as Gli Azzurri prepare for a crucial match.
Contrast that with Norway, where Stale Solbakken has transformed the team into a formidable contender. With explosive victories against Moldova and Israel, they have set the stage for what could be their most promising World Cup qualifying campaign yet, boasting a streak of **back-to-back multi-goal victories**.
Norway vs Italy: Why BTTS and Over 2.5 Goals Are Worth a Bet
With Norway riding high on their recent performances, their overall winning streak now stands at four games, complemented by an impressive tally of **18 goals scored** while conceding just three. This momentum positions them positively ahead of the matchup, even though their historical record against Italy is less than stellar.
You’d have to go back to **June 2000** for Norway’s last victory over Gli Azzurri. Since then, they’ve faced Italy four times, securing just one draw and three defeats—each time conceding exactly two goals. However, it’s worth noting that the last clash between the teams occurred in **2015**, making the past record somewhat less relevant.
Home Advantage and Goals Galore
Norway’s recent home form is particularly noteworthy; they have lost only once in their last nine World Cup qualifiers on home soil (W5, D3). Impressively, four of these five victories came with **multi-goal margins**, showcasing their growing confidence and an uplifting atmosphere around the squad.
On the flip side, Italy enters this match on a three-game winless streak (D1, L2), conceding **eight goals** in that time. While Italy boasts a strong historic defensive reputation, having kept clean sheets in their last four World Cup qualifying away matches (W2, D2), they haven’t managed to stop the floodgates since exiting Euro 2024, achieving just one clean sheet in their last eight games.
High-Scoring Potential
Your attention should definitely turn to the scoring potential in this matchup. Norway’s last five games have seen more than **4.5 goals** each, a clear signal of their attacking prowess. Furthermore, Italy’s eight matches since Euro 2024 have consistently produced **three or more goals**. Fans can expect a thrilling display of attacking football, making **Both Teams to Score (BTTS)** and **over 2.5 total goals** very promising bets for this enticing encounter.
