Erling Haaland showed why he remains one of the most exciting strikers in world football, scoring a sensational hat-trick as Norway cruised to a 5-0 win over Israel in Oslo on Sunday night. What made his performance even more remarkable was that he had earlier missed two penalties — only to come back stronger and lead his team to an emphatic victory.
The match began with Norway on the front foot, pressing high and dominating possession. Haaland had two early chances to put his team ahead, both from the penalty spot, but failed on both attempts — once hitting the post and once seeing his effort saved by the Israeli goalkeeper. The frustration on the faces of Norwegian fans was clear, yet their faith in Haaland never wavered.
The Manchester City striker quickly turned things around. In the 34th minute, a perfectly timed through ball from Martin Ødegaard split the Israeli defence, allowing Haaland to fire home with his right foot. The roar from the Ullevaal Stadium was deafening — Norway’s star man was back in business.
After breaking the deadlock, Norway gained complete control. The team’s midfield trio, led by Ødegaard, kept possession smartly and created more opportunities. Haaland added his second just before half-time, reacting quickest to a loose ball inside the box. By then, Norway were unstoppable, playing with confidence and energy.
The second half continued in the same fashion. Ødegaard pulled strings from midfield, while defenders rarely allowed Israel a look at goal. Haaland completed his hat-trick in the 63rd minute with a calm finish after a clever pass from Alexander Sørloth. The crowd erupted once more, recognising Haaland’s resilience after what had looked like a frustrating start.
Norway didn’t stop there — goals from Sørloth and young winger Oscar Bobb sealed the 5-0 victory. It was a complete performance, combining attacking flair with solid defending.
This game was more than just a big win for Norway. It was a reminder of how top athletes handle pressure and bounce back from setbacks. Missing two penalties could shake any player’s confidence, but Haaland demonstrated mental strength — a quality that separates the good from the great.
For Norway, the result boosts confidence ahead of their qualifying campaign for next year’s European Championship. With Haaland’s goal-scoring form returning and Ødegaard’s creativity shining through, the team looks ready to challenge stronger opponents in future fixtures.
From an international perspective, Haaland’s performance reminds fans why he is seen as one of football’s brightest talents. While critics often point to his form in club football with Manchester City, his latest international display reinforces that he can be just as influential for his country.
Football fans — young and old — can take a lesson from Haaland’s night in Oslo: even when you fail, never stop believing in your ability to rise again. Norway’s 5-0 victory over Israel will surely be remembered not just for the goals, but for the message it carried — resilience, teamwork, and redemption.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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