OSLO, Norway – Norway will seek to maintain their perfect start to World Cup qualifying when they host Moldova at Ullevaal Stadion on Tuesday, aiming for a fifth consecutive victory that would solidify their position atop Group I.
The in-form Norwegians extended their winning streak to seven matches with a 1-0 friendly victory over Finland on Thursday, continuing their best run of results in over two decades. Their qualifying campaign has been particularly impressive, featuring 13 goals scored while conceding just twice across four matches.
Erling Haaland has been central to Norway’s success, scoring in each of their last seven internationals – equaling his personal best scoring streak – with nine goals during that span. The Manchester City striker’s form has propelled his nation to the brink of their first major tournament appearance since Euro 2000.
Moldova arrive in stark contrast, having lost all four of their qualifiers while conceding 13 goals and scoring just once. Their 4-0 defeat to Israel on Friday extended their losing streak to five matches and highlighted the challenge facing Serghei Cleșcenco’s side, who have lost 29 of their last 35 away qualifiers.
Historical precedent offers little encouragement for the visitors: Norway are unbeaten in six previous meetings (W5, D1), including a 5-0 victory in the reverse fixture. Moldova’s defensive vulnerabilities – conceding an average of 3.2 goals per game during their current losing streak – suggest they face another difficult evening against a free-scoring Norwegian attack.
With qualification for the 2026 World Cup increasingly within reach, Norway will view this match as an opportunity to build momentum before facing tougher group opponents. For Moldova, already effectively eliminated from contention, the focus shifts to restoring competitive pride after a dismal start to their campaign.
