Star striker Erling Haaland scored a hat-trick as Norway crushed Israel 5-0 on Saturday, taking a significant leap toward qualifying for their first World Cup since 1998.
The victory at Ullevaal Stadion was fueled by Haaland’s second-half goals and a chaotic first half for Israel, which included two own goals (Anan Khalaili, 18′, and Idan Nachmias, 28′).
Haaland, who now has an incredible 51 goals in 46 international appearances, had two early penalty attempts saved, but quickly found the net in the 27th minute before completing his sixth international treble in the 72nd minute.
The win puts Norway in a strong lead in Group I. Second-placed Italy kept pace by beating Estonia 3-1, cutting Norway’s lead to six points, though Italy has a game in hand.
The match was held amidst tight security and pro-Palestinian protests in Oslo.
The Norwegian FA, which had called for Israel to be banned from international football, announced it would donate ticket proceeds to Doctors Without Borders.
Inside the stadium, a giant Palestinian flag was unfurled, an action that may draw a response from UEFA.
