Haaland Heroics and Portuguese Rampage Seal World Cup Qualification

Published: 17 November 2025 Monday. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Portugal and Norway have officially sealed their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following decisive victories in the latest round of European qualifiers. Portugal, recovering from a shock loss to Ireland, roared back to claim top spot in Group F with a staggering 9-1 win over Armenia. Meanwhile, Norway secured their first World Cup appearance since 1998 with a 4-1 triumph against Italy, highlighted by an Erling Haaland brace that confirmed their place at football’s global showpiece.

Portugal’s path to qualification had not been entirely smooth. The European champions, who were runners-up at Euro 2016 and semi-finalists in subsequent tournaments, faced a moment of vulnerability after being held to a draw by Hungary and then suffering a 2-0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland. The setbacks left questions over their consistency, especially in the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was serving a suspension. However, the team answered those doubts emphatically in Porto against Armenia, showcasing the depth and talent that has made them a mainstay in international football.

The Portuguese display was nothing short of spectacular. Star midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Joao Neves both scored hat-tricks, while Renato Veiga, Goncalo Ramos, and Francisco Conceicao also found the net. The team’s attacking fluidity and precision left the Armenian side overwhelmed, and the final 9-1 scoreline reflected a dominant performance that left no room for doubt over Portugal’s World Cup credentials.

“The most important thing was qualifying for the World Cup,” said Joao Neves in an interview with RTP. “For me, as I always say, the team always comes before the individual. I’m very happy to have scored my first goal for the national team, and my second and third as well.” Neves’ words underlined the collective effort that had propelled Portugal past their final hurdle in qualifying, a team-first mentality that has become a hallmark of Fernando Santos’ squad.

Despite missing Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s squad depth and tactical flexibility proved decisive. Ronaldo, who remains suspended, posted a message of celebration on social media: “We’re at the World Cup! Let’s go, Portugal!” His absence did not hinder the team’s offensive rhythm, demonstrating that the post-Ronaldo era in the Portuguese national team may already be taking shape with new leaders emerging to carry the mantle.

While Portugal celebrated, Ireland also made headlines by securing a playoff place in the group. The Republic of Ireland edged Hungary 3-2, thanks to a dramatic 96th-minute winner from Troy Parrott. The AZ Alkmaar forward had already been instrumental in Ireland’s 2-0 shock victory over Portugal in their previous match, proving his value as a decisive attacking force. Parrott’s brace in Hungary equalized the score late in the game, and his injury-time strike clinched the playoff berth, sparking wild celebrations among Irish fans and teammates alike.

Daniel Lukacs had opened the scoring for Hungary after just four minutes, and Barnabas Varga’s 37th-minute strike looked to have secured second place for the hosts. Yet, Parrott’s persistence and composure under pressure demonstrated why he is regarded as one of Ireland’s brightest young talents. His fifth-minute heroics of the week sent Ireland into the next stage of qualification, keeping alive their hopes of reaching the 2026 tournament in North America.

In parallel, Norway’s qualification was equally compelling. The Scandinavian side had not qualified for the World Cup since the 1998 edition in France, marking a 28-year absence from football’s most prestigious event. The team, led by manager Heimir Hallgrimsson, showcased their attacking prowess against Italy with a 4-1 victory. Erling Haaland, Norway’s star striker and one of the most feared forwards in world football, scored twice, reinforcing his reputation as a game-changer on the international stage.

Haaland’s goals came at crucial moments, breaking through Italy’s defensive lines and providing Norway with a level of assurance that ultimately secured qualification. Norway’s success also highlighted the tactical evolution of the team, which combined defensive solidity with rapid transitions in attack, making them a formidable opponent for any future World Cup contender.

The 2026 World Cup will mark a historic edition of the tournament, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For Portugal, this will be their seventh consecutive appearance at the tournament, a streak that underscores their consistency and resilience at the highest level of international football. While they are yet to lift the trophy, the team has consistently been a contender, and this upcoming World Cup provides another opportunity to pursue their first triumph on football’s ultimate stage.

Norway’s return to the World Cup stage brings a sense of excitement and anticipation, especially with Haaland leading the line. The striker’s performances have already drawn comparisons with the greats of the game, and his presence on the global stage promises to make Norway a team to watch. The Norwegian squad also blends experienced campaigners with emerging talent, creating a balanced side capable of competing against the world’s elite.

Both Portugal and Norway now turn their focus to preparation for the tournament, analyzing potential group-stage opponents and refining tactical approaches. Portugal’s midfielders, including Fernandes and Neves, will be crucial in dictating the pace and control of matches, while Norway will rely heavily on Haaland’s finishing and the team’s organized structure to navigate a competitive field.

The qualification also brings attention to the rising stars of European football, particularly players like Troy Parrott, whose contributions have already had a decisive impact in key matches. For nations like Ireland, who narrowly missed out on automatic qualification, the playoffs offer a lifeline and a chance to join the elite ranks at the World Cup, keeping the suspense and drama of European football alive as teams battle for the remaining spots.

As preparations intensify, fans across Europe and beyond are already looking forward to the spectacle that is the FIFA World Cup. The tournament promises thrilling matches, unforgettable moments, and the chance for new heroes to emerge on football’s most iconic stage. Portugal and Norway’s qualification narratives are already capturing the imagination of supporters, offering storylines of redemption, emergence, and continental pride.

With the 2026 World Cup only a few months away, the anticipation will continue to build. Portugal enters the tournament with a blend of experience and emerging talent, eager to finally claim their first title. Norway returns after a long absence, bringing hope, excitement, and one of the most prolific strikers in modern football. Together, these teams contribute to the growing drama, competition, and global appeal that define the FIFA World Cup, ensuring that football fans worldwide have much to look forward to in the lead-up to next year’s tournament.