World Cup Qualifying Preview: Israel vs. Norway

As the 2026 World Cup Qualifying campaign heats up, Israel will host Norway in a highly anticipated clash set to take place at the Nagyerdei Stadion in Debrecen, Hungary, on Tuesday. This matchup, featuring the top two teams in Group I, is crucial for both sides who aim to maintain their perfect start in the qualifiers.

Recent Form

Israel enters this match after a 2-1 victory over Estonia, where they showcased their ability to fight back after conceding an early goal. Eli Dasa, the captain and right-back, made a significant impact in that game, scoring what proved to be the decisive goal. The victory has placed Israel in a secure playoff position, and they hope to build on this momentum against Norway. The team previously demonstrated their competitiveness by holding France to a draw and beating Belgium in the Nations League.

On the other hand, Norway arrives with their confidence high after a commanding 5-0 win against Moldova. Erling Haaland continued his impressive scoring form, netting his 39th goal for the national team, while contributions from Julian Ryerson, Alexander Sorloth, Aron Donnum, and Thelo Aasgaard highlighted their depth in attacking talent. Norway's unbeaten streak leaves them at the top of Group I, significantly enhancing their hopes of returning to a World Cup Finals for the first time since 1998. ### Historical Context

Historically, the two teams have met twice on Israeli soil, with Israel winning the first encounter in a friendly in 1972 but losing the more recent match in 1999. Given the current climate and complexities surrounding home matches for Israel, this 'home' game will take place at a neutral venue, adding a different dynamic to the contest.

Team News

Norway faces concerns with center-back Leo Ostigard sidelined due to injury during their match with Moldova. His potential replacement, Torbjorn Heggem, will be on standby to partner with Kristoffer Ajer if Ostigard cannot play. In attacking roles, Haaland leads the charge, while Sorloth is looking to add to his tally and match Norway's scoring legends.

Israel, meanwhile, comes into this match with no fresh injury concerns despite the absence of veteran defender Miguel Vitor and midfielders Dia Saba and Dolev Haziza for their last game. Dasa, having recently scored his first international goal, will again captain the team alongside promising young talent Oscar Gloukh, who is rumored to be attracting interest from top clubs.

Expected Lineups

Israel’s Possible Starting XI:

  • Goalkeeper: Peretz
  • Defenders: Dasa, Nachmias, Shlomo, Revivo
  • Midfielders: Jaber, Abu Fani
  • Forwards: Biton, Gloukh, Solomon, David

Norway’s Possible Starting XI:

  • Goalkeeper: Nyland
  • Defenders: Ryerson, Heggem, Ajer, Donnum
  • Midfielders: Odegaard, Berge, Aasgaard
  • Forwards: Sorloth, Haaland, Schjelderup

Prediction

Predicting the outcome of the match, experts expect a high-scoring game as both teams have shown their capability to find the net consistently. While Israel's attacking prowess can pose challenges for Norway's defense, the Norwegian side, bolstered by a strong squad and an attacking mindset, is favored to take the win. A scoreline of 3-1 in favor of Norway seems plausible, considering their current form and experience.

This match promises to be an exciting encounter between two sides eager to solidify their positions in the group as they each chase their dreams of World Cup qualification.