Four-time world champions Italy endured a nightmare start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign on Friday, suffering a humiliating 3-0 defeat away to Norway, while Belgium were held to a draw in North Macedonia.

Under relentless rain in Oslo, Norway stormed into a commanding lead by half-time with goals from Alexander Sørloth, Antonio Nusa, and Erling Haaland. The result leaves Italy facing an uphill battle in Group I, having already missed the previous two World Cups.

“I have no explanation. Our supporters don’t deserve this kind of performance. We need to reflect deeply. This is unacceptable,” said Italian captain and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to Rai Sport.

Norway sit top of Group I with a perfect record of nine points, following earlier victories over Moldova and Israel in March, while Italy were occupied with their UEFA Nations League commitments.

Israel are second with six points after a 3-1 away win over Estonia in Tallinn. Norway next travel to Estonia on Monday, while Italy return to face Moldova in Reggio Emilia.

Belgium Frustrated in Skopje as Wales Go Top
In Group J, Belgium began their qualification campaign with a 1-1 draw in Skopje, as North Macedonia snatched a late equaliser.

Maxim De Cuyper opened the scoring for Belgium after Romelu Lukaku’s effort was blocked, but Ezgjan Alioski, formerly of Leeds United, volleyed home a dramatic leveller with four minutes remaining.

Despite the draw, North Macedonia remain unbeaten after three matches but trail Wales, who lead the group on seven points following a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Liechtenstein in Cardiff.

Joe Rodon, Harry Wilson, and Kieffer Moore were all on target for Wales, who have yet to lose under manager Craig Bellamy.

“We could have scored a lot more, and we’d like to see more of that,” said Bellamy to BBC Wales.
“I’m looking forward to Monday’s match against Belgium.”

Croatia and Czech Republic Enjoy Dominant Wins
Croatia made an emphatic start to their Group J campaign, demolishing Gibraltar 7-0 in the Algarve.

Franjo Ivanović and Andrej Kramarić both netted braces after coming off the bench, with Marco Pašalić, Ante Budimir, and Ivan Perišić also getting on the scoresheet.

Elsewhere, Czech Republic extended their perfect start in the group to three wins from three, courtesy of a 2-0 home victory over Montenegro. Goals from Adam Hložek and Patrik Schick secured the points in Prague.

The twelve group winners will automatically qualify for next year’s expanded 48-team World Cup, while the runners-up will enter the play-offs, where Europe’s final four qualifying spots will be determined.