LONDON:

Norway's 4-1 win over Estonia that all but guarantees a 2026 World Cup spot after a long absence from the finals has prompted wild celebrations and an avalanche of confidence in the country, with a former coach saying they could even make the final.

Haaland and Alexander Sorloth both netted twice on Thursday to leave Norway top of Group I with a three-point lead over Italy, who they meet in their final game in Milan on Sunday.

The Italians, who have missed out on the last two World Cup tournaments, must win and overturn a huge goal difference deficit of 17 to top the group and qualify.

The final whistle on a chilly night in Oslo prompted wild celebrations from the fans as confetti and ribbons rained down to celebrate Norway's likely return to the World Cup for the first time si

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