Norway vs. Israel: World Cup Qualifier Showdown at Ullevaal Stadion
As the crisp autumn air settles over Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, Norway prepares to host Israel in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier on October 11, 2025, at 16:00 UTC. This encounter carries significant weight for both nations vying for a coveted spot in football’s biggest tournament. Norway, currently riding a wave of impressive form, aims to solidify its position atop Group I, while a resilient Israel seeks to upset the odds and reignite their qualification aspirations. The atmosphere is set for a professional yet passionate clash, where tactical prowess and individual brilliance will undoubtedly shape the narrative. What’s at stake extends beyond three points; for Norway, it’s a step closer to global glory, and for Israel, it’s a chance to prove their mettle against a formidable opponent on foreign soil. Can the home advantage propel Norway to another victory, or will Israel spring a surprise?
Head-to-Head History
The historical encounters between Norway and Israel have been relatively few but offer a glimpse into their competitive spirit.
- Total matches played: 3
- Norway wins: 2
- Israel wins: 1
- Draws: 0
Recent Results:
The most recent fixture between these two sides was a high-scoring affair earlier this year:
- 25 March 2025: Israel 2-4 Norway (2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification, Group I)
- 20 January 1999: Israel 0-1 Norway (Friendly International)
- 23 February 1972: Israel 2-1 Norway (Friendly International)
The 4-2 victory for Norway in their most recent meeting suggests a propensity for goals when these two teams clash, highlighting both attacking capabilities and potential defensive vulnerabilities on either side.
Current Form & Team News
Norway
The Norwegian national team comes into this match in scintillating form, boasting a perfect record in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. Their last five competitive matches have all been victories:
- W: 11-1 vs. Moldova (World Cup Qualifier, 9 Sept 2025)
- W: 1-0 vs. Finland (Friendly, 4 Sept 2025)
- W: 1-0 vs. Estonia (World Cup Qualifier, 9 June 2025)
- W: 3-0 vs. Italy (World Cup Qualifier, 6 June 2025)
- W: 4-2 vs. Israel (World Cup Qualifier, 25 Mar 2025)
Over their last 10 competitive games, Norway has secured an impressive 9 wins and only 1 loss, averaging 3.9 goals per game.
Team News:
Norway will be without their influential captain and creative midfielder, Martin Ødegaard, who sustained an MCL knee injury while playing for his club. This is a significant blow, as Ødegaard has provided 7 assists in the qualifying campaign. In his absence, Manchester City’s Erling Haaland is expected to wear the captain’s armband. Additionally, defender Leo Østigård is also sidelined due to injury. However, Norway still boasts incredible attacking talent, with Erling Haaland leading the scoring charts with 16 goals in qualifying, supported by Alexander Sørloth (6 goals) and Thelo Aasgaard (5 goals). Young talent Oscar Bobb is anticipated to fill the void left by Ødegaard in the starting lineup.
Israel
Israel has shown flashes of brilliance but also defensive vulnerabilities in their recent outings. Their last five matches across all competitions are as follows:
- L: 4-5 vs. Italy (World Cup Qualifier, 8 Sept 2025)
- W: 4-0 vs. Moldova (World Cup Qualifier, 5 Sept 2025)
- W: 1-0 vs. Slovakia (Friendly, 10 June 2025)
- W: 3-1 vs. Estonia (World Cup Qualifier, 6 June 2025)
- L: 2-4 vs. Norway (World Cup Qualifier, 25 Mar 2025)
Israel has scored 15 goals in 5 World Cup qualifying matches, demonstrating their offensive capabilities, but have also conceded 11 in the same period, highlighting their defensive challenges.
Team News:
Defender Stav Lemkin is reported to be unavailable due to injury. Otherwise, manager Ran Ben Shimon appears to have a relatively full squad to choose from. Key players for Israel include Dor Peretz, who bagged two goals in their recent nine-goal thriller against Italy, and Manor Solomon, who scored against Moldova. Midfielder Oscar Gloukh is another vital component of their squad.
Tactical Preview
The match at Ullevaal Stadion is expected to be a clash of offensive intentions. Norway, under Ståle Solbakken, is renowned for its attacking prowess, spearheaded by the prolific Erling Haaland. Expect Norway to adopt an aggressive, high-pressing style, aiming to dominate possession and create numerous scoring opportunities. The absence of Martin Ødegaard will necessitate adjustments in Norway’s creative midfield, with Oscar Bobb likely stepping into a crucial playmaking role. Norway’s defensive record in qualifiers (3 goals conceded in 5 games) is strong, but they will be wary of Israel’s ability to find the net, as seen in their previous 4-2 encounter.
Israel, managed by Ran Ben Shimon, has also demonstrated an ability to score goals, netting 15 in their five World Cup qualifiers. However, their defensive record, with 11 goals conceded in the same period, suggests a vulnerability that Norway will look to exploit. Israel will likely aim to counter Norway’s attacking thrust with quick transitions and rely on players like Dor Peretz and Oscar Gloukh to create chances. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Israel needing to disrupt Norway’s rhythm and prevent balls from reaching Haaland. The home advantage at Ullevaal Stadion will provide an additional boost to Norway, with the crowd expected to create an intimidating atmosphere for the visitors.
