Following a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Norway in their opening World Cup qualifier on Friday, Italy face a challenging path to the 2026 tournament. The question now is: what is required for them to secure qualification?
The heavy loss in Norway on Friday dealt a significant blow to Italy`s aspirations for qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, as the Azzurri`s campaign began with a collapse.
Erling Haaland`s side had already completed two matches, securing victories in both, placing them firmly atop the group standings with a maximum nine points.
Direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup is awarded only to the group winners. Teams finishing as runners-up must navigate the playoff route, a scenario Italy has unfortunately faced in their last two failed attempts to reach the tournament.
Tie-breaking rules for teams level on points in World Cup qualifiers
Should two teams be level on points at the top of the group, the tie-breaker for direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup is superior goal difference.
Not only has Norway accumulated nine points from their first three fixtures, but they also boast a strong goal difference of +10.
Italy were drawn into Group I following their elimination by Germany in the Nations League quarter-finals back in March.
The return fixture between Italy and Norway is scheduled for November 16.
2026 World Cup European Qualifiers – Group I Standings
- Norway: 9 points (GD +10)
- Israel: 6 points (GD +1)
- Estonia: 3 points (GD -2)
- Italy: 0 points (GD -3)
- Moldova: 0 points (GD -6)
