The Azzurri started their qualifying campaign later, as they participated in the Nations League quarter-finals.
Norway therefore surged out in front and have won all four of their games so far, including a 3-0 against Italy in Oslo on June 6.
BELGRADE, SERBIA – JUNE 02: Erling Haaland of Norway celebrates after victory in the UEFA Nations League League B Group 4 match between Serbia and Norway at Stadion Rajko Mitić on June 02, 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)
That allowed them to catch Israel on nine points, but with a game in hand, and a superior goal difference.
Italy are back in action on October 11 with a trip to Estonia, then host Israel on October 14.
If the Nazionale win every game, as do Norway, then they’ll both be on the same points and first place will be decided on goal difference.
Only first place goes directly to the 2026 World Cup, as the runners-up must go through play-offs.
