Haaland hat-trick helps Norway rout Israel amid protests in Oslo

Norway's Erling Braut Haland (R) celebrates with Martin Odegaard after scoring his side's fourth goal during the 2026 World Cup Group I qualifier with Israel. Photo by ATTILA KISBENEDEK/AFP via Getty Images 

Norway ran riot with a 5-0 win at home to Israel in a World Cup qualifier on Saturday, as Erling Haaland struck a hat-trick to celebrate his 50th international goal and help move his side to the brink of a place at next year's tournament.

The World Cup qualifier between Norway and Israel in Oslo on Saturday was marked by protests and a heavy security response including the use of tear gas, with Norwegian fans divided over Israel’s participation in the tournament due to the war in Gaza.

Ahead of the game, hundreds gathered to protest outside the Norwegian parliament, with many wearing the jerseys of the Palestine national team.

Later, Norwegian police confirmed they had used tear gas on a group of protesters who attempted to breach the barricades surrounding the stadium as the match was being played

Norway have now won all six of their Group I matches, boasting a goal difference of plus 26 ahead of their remaining two fixtures against Estonia and second-placed Italy, who sit nine points behind with two games in hand.

Despite missing a twice-taken penalty early on, Haaland found his rhythm, scoring once in the first half and twice after the break to reach his 50-goal milestone and finishing the night with an incredible 51 in 46 internationals.

Israel added to their own misery with two own goals in the first half from Anan Khalaili and Idan Nachmias.

Reuters