Norway thrash Moldova in 11-1 goal fest, England crush Serbia

Italy's dramatic 5-4 win over Israel had little time under the spotlight before it was stolen by Norway's thumping 11-1 triumph over Moldova at the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday.

Felix Myhre drew first blood, scoring early at the sixth minute mark. Haaland collected a first-half hat-trick and netted two more goals before the final whistle, while Martin Odegaard grabbed a goal and two assists.

Moldova's shortlived breath of relief arrived in Leo Ostigard's own goal, but Rangers midfielder Thelo Aasgaard avenged his teammate, coming off the bench in style to score four goals. Haaland gave the 23-year-old a penalty allowing him to complete an 11-minute hat-trick.

Norway, who downed four-time world champions Italy earlier in qualifying, are bidding to qualify for a first World Cup since 1998. They moved six points clear of the Azzurri having played a game more.

Into the Lions' den

England sent out a warning to their rivals with a 5-0 victory over Serbia, clearing doubts over manager Thomas Tuchel's ability to lead the Three Lions. After their laborious 2-0 win over Andorra, fans questioned his ability to lead the pack, but the former Chelsea manager provided a resounding response. 

England dominated the early stages in Belgrade and took the lead in the 33rd minute when Harry Kane headed home his 74th international goal from a Declan Rice corner.

The visitors doubled their advantage two minutes later, as Noni Madueke raced to dink the ball beyond Serbia goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic. 

The second half witnessed Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi pushing for the win with a goal each, while Marcus Rashford sealed it with a late penalty. 

England could qualify for an eighth-successive World Cup in their next Group K game when they visit Latvia next month.
(With inputs from AFP)