Erling Haaland’s Norway have ended Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup dream by knocking Brazil out of the tournament, a result that has intensified scrutiny of the veteran Italian coach and reignited debate among supporters back in Italy.
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Norway’s victory is the latest milestone in the Scandinavian side’s remarkable rise.
Question marks for Italy after Norway’s win over Brazil
After comfortably beating the Azzurri 3-0 in a World Cup qualifier last year, Ståle Solbakken’s team has continued to prove it belongs among the world’s elite, prompting many to revisit the FIGC’s decision to dismiss Luciano Spalletti in the aftermath of that defeat.
With the benefit of hindsight, was Italy’s loss to Norway simply the first sign of an emerging European force, or did the federation act too hastily by changing head coach so soon?
As Ancelotti comes under increasing pressure following Brazil’s elimination, Norway’s success has inevitably drawn fresh comparisons with Italy’s recent struggles.
We take a closer look at the debate surrounding Spalletti’s departure, assess how Norway have established themselves as one of the World Cup’s standout teams, and examine which Norwegian players would be ideal additions to the current Azzurri squad.
