Italy Vs Norway [1–4] – 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Why The Azzurri Collapsed Against Erling Haaland – Tactical Analysis

Italy were defeated at home by Norway 1-4 in their FIFA World Cup Qualifier, which saw them lose out on their chance for direct qualification, as Norway advanced, undefeated.

Although the Azzurri had more of the ball, they were outplayed by a hard-working Norwegian side led by Erling Haaland.

With the chance to make the playoffs, the Italians may still have an opportunity to advance.

In this tactical analysis, we will examine Italy’s deficit, the areas Norway dominated, and the changes Italy must make to get back on track.

Italy Vs Norway Lineups & Formations

Lets examine how Gennaro Gattuso and Ståle Solbakken assembled their squads.

Italy Lineup & Formation

Gennaro Gattuso tactics lined up in a 4-4-2 formation.

Skipper Gianluigi Donnarumma was in goal, behind a back four of Giovanni Di Lorenzo (right-back), Gianluca Mancini (right centre-back), Alessandro Bastoni (left centre-back), and Federico Dimarco (left-back). Samuele Ricci replaced Bastoni at the 86th minute.