| The Norwegians already lead the table in Group I with six points and nine goals scored. A defeat in Oslo on Friday would put the Italians far from first place. In the FIFA world rankings Italy have a clear advantage at 9th place over the hosts who are 38th. However, this is not reflected from the best bookies who gives equal chances for a win. The two nations have already played 17 international matches against each other. Italy clearly leads the record with ten wins. For some time now, Norwegian football has been able to rely on a very talanted generation with stars from top European leagues such as Odegaard, Sorloth and Erling Haaland. Nevertheless, the country hasn't participated in a major tournament since year 2000. This time, the Scandinavians have every reason to hope. On the one hand, they have had a great Nations League season. In a Group with Austria, Slovenia and Kazakhstan, Norway secured first place with 13 points and will therefore be able to play in League A in the upcoming Nations League season. |
