Haaland hits five as Norway crush Moldova 11-1 in World Cup Qualifier

Erling Haaland produced a masterclass with five goals while substitute Thelo Aasgaard struck four as Norway demolished Moldova 11-1 to strengthen their push for a first World Cup appearance since 1998. The emphatic win leaves Norway top of Group I on 15 points after five games, six clear of second-placed Italy, who still have a match in hand. Moldova’s heaviest defeat keeps them rooted to the bottom with no points.

Norway took control early when Haaland’s cushioned pass allowed Felix Horn Myhre to open the scoring in the sixth minute. Captain Martin Odegaard missed a golden chance moments later, but Haaland soon doubled the lead, pouncing on a loose ball in the 11th minute. The Manchester City striker added two more before halftime, including a superb chip after rounding goalkeeper Cristian Avram, to secure his hat-trick. Odegaard then struck just before the break to make it 5-0.

The second half continued in the same vein as Haaland powered in a header for his fourth, before substitute Aasgaard made his mark with two quick goals, sandwiching an own goal from teammate Leo Ostigard. Aasgaard completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the 79th minute before Haaland netted again to register his ninth goal in five qualifiers. Aasgaard added a late flicked finish in stoppage time to cap off Norway’s biggest win in years.

With the group winners guaranteed automatic qualification, Norway now look firmly on course for next year’s World Cup, while runners-up must settle for a playoff route.

SportsLigue