Italy vs Norway prediction, H2H and probable lineups - November 16, 2025
One of the headline fixtures of Matchday 10 in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers will take place this Sunday at the legendary San Siro in Milan, where Italy hosts the group leaders, Norway. We present a betting tip for this clash with solid chances of success.
Match preview
Italy have once again demonstrated their trademark solidity in both defense and attack, securing a sixth consecutive win in qualifying. However, even this flawless streak is unlikely to earn the Azzurri a direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup finals, as their goal difference leaves much to be desired.
Gennaro Gattuso’s side will most likely shift their focus to preparing for the playoffs, given their inevitability. There’s little point in going all out, especially with the risk of yellow cards and injuries on the line—Italy only managed to edge past Moldova in the dying minutes, which says a lot about their current motivation.
Norway, on the other hand, are dominating their group and enter the final round with a perfect record—seven wins from seven. Ståle Solbakken’s men are not just getting results, but putting on a show: 33 goals scored, matching the record for five-team qualifying groups.
The Scandinavians are well aware that they’re on the brink of making history, with a first World Cup appearance since 1998 within reach. Even an eight-goal defeat in Milan would leave them top of the group. Still, Norway will be eager to notch another win and head to the finals with a 100% record. On top of that, Haaland and company have a chance to break the all-time qualifying scoring record if they find the net at least once more.
Probable lineups
- Italy: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Mancini, Bastoni, Dimarco; Barella, Locatelli, Cristante; Politano, Retegui, Raspadori
- Norway: Nyland; Ryerson, Heggem, Ajer, Bjorkan; Bobb, Berg, Berge, Nusa; Sorloth, Haaland
Match facts and head-to-head
- Norway defeated Italy 3-0 in the reverse fixture of the qualifying cycle
- Italy have scored at least twice in each of their last six qualifiers
- Norway have conceded no more than one goal in each of their last five qualifying matches
Prediction
The group situation demands a measured approach from Italy, who need to keep their eyes on the playoffs, while Norway step onto the pitch highly motivated—chasing a historic World Cup berth and a scoring record. Given the visitors’ form and their convincing first-leg win, backing "Both teams to score" at 1.62 looks like a solid bet.
