Norway vs Italy Preview, Prediction, News and odds: 6/6/2025

Norway and Italy are set to face off at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo on Friday, June 6, 2025, in a pivotal matchday three encounter in the European World Cup Qualifying campaign. The match, scheduled for 19:45 local time, comes at a moment when both sides are aiming to solidify their positions in the group standings. Norway, currently sitting first with six points from two matches, aim to extend their strong start, while Italy, still finding consistency, look to reignite their qualifying push after mixed results in recent outings.

Both teams enter the match with contrasting narratives—Norway riding high after two dominant performances, and Italy still navigating a transitional phase under new leadership. The matchup is expected to be tightly contested, with implications for the group’s eventual outcome.

Norway Overview

Norway have opened their qualification campaign with two wins from two, scoring nine goals and conceding only twice in the process. This early dominance has placed them at the top of their group and highlighted their attacking efficiency and defensive organization.

Their most recent victory came in a high-scoring 4-2 away win against Israel. That performance not only underscored their clinical nature in the final third but also demonstrated their ability to handle pressure on foreign soil. The attacking lineup has been particularly effective, combining direct forward play with sharp transitions that have troubled opposition defenses.

Manager Ståle Solbakken has shaped the Norwegian side into a cohesive unit, emphasizing tactical adaptability and team discipline. His balanced approach, blending experience with emerging talent, has allowed Norway to develop a system that can both control possession and strike decisively on the break. The team has also benefitted from the form of several key players based in top European leagues, giving them a competitive edge in the early stages of the qualifiers.

At home, Norway will look to leverage crowd support and their confident start to apply early pressure on their Italian visitors. Maintaining their intensity and exploiting any structural weaknesses in Italy’s setup will be central to their approach.

Italy Overview

Italy enter this fixture with a need to regain consistency following an uneven series of performances. After failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, the Azzurri have undergone a tactical and structural reset under new head coach Luciano Spalletti. His appointment signaled a shift toward more fluid and attacking football, but the transition has yet to fully stabilize.

In their most recent match, Italy drew 3-3 in an entertaining encounter against Germany. While the game showcased the team’s attacking capability, it also exposed vulnerabilities in defense. That result followed a string of mixed outcomes in their last five matches, which include two wins, a draw, and two defeats.

Spalletti’s system emphasizes high pressing and offensive rotations, but integrating new players into the squad has required time. The manager is known for building adaptable teams that can adjust in-game, and his ability to extract consistent performances will be essential as Italy navigates the competitive landscape of the qualifiers.

Italy’s track record in World Cup Qualifying, however, suggests resilience. Despite their recent challenges, the Azzurri remain a technically proficient side capable of controlling matches when operating at their best. Against Norway, they will aim to dominate possession while maintaining shape to limit counterattacks—a tactical necessity against a fast-transitioning Norwegian team.

Norway vs Italy Head-to-Head

In previous meetings, Italy have had the edge, winning three of their last five encounters against Norway. Their latest victory was a 2-1 win on home ground. However, Norway recorded a home win over Italy in their last matchup at Ullevaal Stadion, suggesting that the venue could play a factor in balancing the contest.

The historical pattern indicates that although Italy hold the overall advantage, Norway have demonstrated the capacity to upset them under the right circumstances, especially when playing in Oslo.

Team Form and Recent Match Results

Norway come into this match with a strong run of form, winning four of their last five matches in all competitions. This stretch includes back-to-back victories in the current qualification round and reflects a team operating with confidence and momentum.

Italy’s form has been inconsistent, with two victories, one draw, and two losses in their last five games. Their recent results indicate attacking promise but also raise questions about defensive cohesion. The 3-3 draw with Germany highlighted both their scoring threat and defensive lapses, making adjustments necessary heading into this crucial fixture.

Norway vs Italy Betting odds

Betting markets reflect a balanced outlook for this matchup. Current odds list Italy at 2.55 to win, Norway at 2.65, and a draw priced at 3.62. These close margins suggest the bookmakers expect a tight contest with no clear-cut favorite.

In the “Both Teams to Score” market, the “Yes” option is priced at 1.58, reflecting recent goal-scoring trends for both sides. Given the attacking records and vulnerabilities shown in defense by each team, this market offers realistic value for bettors.

A draw appears to be a viable outcome based on form, context, and tactical parity. For those looking to enhance potential returns, correct score betting—such as a 1-1 result—or double chance options could also be considered.

Several leading sportsbooks continue to offer welcome bonuses, including free bets upon first deposit. These promotions can provide added value for new users wagering on tightly contested international qualifiers such as this one.

Prediction

Friday’s fixture promises to be one of the standout matches of the qualification round. Norway’s recent success, home advantage, and organized style of play make them a serious threat, while Italy’s pedigree, technical depth, and desire to reestablish themselves on the global stage will drive their approach.

The clash is likely to be shaped by tactical discipline and key moments in transition. With both teams capable of scoring and structured enough to manage long periods without conceding, the match could end with both sides sharing points.

Given the current dynamics, a draw with goals on both sides appears to be the most balanced prediction. While either team could edge it on the day, the margins are slim.

Prediction: Norway 1:1 Italy