Erling Haaland scored a hat-trick as Norway defeated Israel in a World Cup qualifier overshadowed by pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Oslo. The Manchester City striker missed two early penalties but recovered to lead his side to a convincing victory, moving them to within touching distance of a first World Cup finals appearance in 27 years.
The match was preceded by a protest march of around 1,500 people through the capital, with flares, drums and red cards distributed. The Norwegian Football Federation had previously called for Israel to be sanctioned over its settlement policy, and its president, Lise Klaveness, had argued for a ban. Security was high, but only minor skirmishes were reported, including a pitch invasion by a lone protester and a brief altercation involving Israeli journalists.
Inside the stadium, a Palestine flag was unfurled alongside a banner reading “Let children live”. A small group of Israeli fans raised their flag as a section of home supporters whistled. The result leaves Norway needing a win over Estonia next month to confirm their place at the World Cup, while Israel are eliminated from contention.
