Overview
After the opening match of Group I of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Europe, Norway and Israel both won. However, Norway ranked above thanks to a superior goal difference after a resounding 5-0 victory over Moldova. Meanwhile, although Israel has the same 3 points, the goal difference is only +1. Compared to Norway, Israel had a relatively good chance of having a hard time against Estonia.
Italy will soon join the race in Group I after losing in the quarter-finals of the Nations League to Germany. However, Norway is certainly still a strong candidate for second place, thereby giving them more opportunities to win tickets through the knockout round.
The Nordic country has not reached the World Cup finals since 1998 and its last major tournament appearance was at EURO 2000. But with Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard in charge, coach Ola Solbakken's team will confidently aim to feature in the 2026 World Cup.
Meanwhile, under the leadership of coach Ran Ben Shimon, Israel possesses a flexible and diverse attacking style of play. Despite having to play on a neutral field in Hungary, Israel is still confident after holding France to a draw and defeating Belgium in the Nations League. They show their ability to compete with more highly rated teams.
The two teams have met twice in history. Israel won 2-1 in a friendly match in 1972, but Norway responded by defeating their opponent 1-0 in 1999. This match promises to be tense as both teams want to consolidate their position in Group I.
Personnel situation
Israel has no new injuries after the win over Estonia. However, Miguel Vitor, Dia Saba and Dolev Haziza have yet to return.
On the other side of the front line, center back Leo Ostigard was injured in the match against Moldova and is uncertain to play. Torbjorn Heggem is now ready to replace Ostigard.
Expected lineup:
Israel: Peretz, Dasa, Nachmias, Shlomo, Revivo, Jaber, Abu Fani, Biton, Gloukh, Solomon, David.
Norway: Nyland, Ryerson, Heggem, Ajer, Donnum, Odegaard, Berge, Aasgaard, Sorloth, Haaland, Schjelderup.
The match between Israel and Norway takes place at 2:45 am on March 26 (Vietnam time).
