Erling Haaland endured a nightmare start for Norway in their World Cup qualifier against Israel on Saturday, missing two penalties in the first half before scoring a hat-trick to secure a vital win.
The Manchester City striker saw his initial fifth-minute penalty saved by Israel goalkeeper Daniel Peretz. Polish referee Szymon Marciniak ordered a retake after ruling Peretz had moved off his line, but Haaland's second effort was also saved by the same goalkeeper.
Despite the early setbacks, Norway took the lead in the 18th minute through Anan Khalaili. Haaland then redeemed himself by doubling Norway's lead shortly before the half-hour mark and added two more goals in the second half to complete his hat-trick.
Norway currently top Group I on 18 points, with Italy and Israel level on nine. Victory over Israel puts them in a strong position to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1998, with matches against Estonia and Italy remaining in November.
Haaland has now scored 51 goals in 46 appearances for Norway since 2020, reaching the 50-goal landmark in fewer matches than Harry Kane, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe.
