Moldova and Norway Clash in World Cup Qualifier Showdown

CHISINAU, Moldova – On Saturday, March 22, the national teams of Moldova and Norway will face off in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the Zimbru Stadium. This Group I clash marks a crucial kickoff for both teams, who are vying for a chance to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.

Moldova, currently ranked 151st in the FIFA standings, aims to improve upon their recent record of six wins, two draws, and two losses in 2024. Under the management of Serghei Clescenco, the Tricolours are determined to translate their past successes into a qualifying campaign capable of leading them to their first-ever World Cup.

“We’re looking to build on the momentum from last year and finally qualify for a major tournament,” Clescenco said. Moldova’s recent form at home, where they have won their last three matches without conceding a single goal, instills confidence in the team.

Meanwhile, Norway enters the match with an impressive FIFA ranking of 43rd. The team, managed by Ståle Solbakken, looks to recover from a disappointing start in 2024, where they secured only one win in their first four friendlies. However, they rebounded strongly towards the end of the year, gathering 13 points from their last six UEFA Nations League matches, finishing first in their group.

“Our focus is on starting strong in these qualifiers,” said Solbakken. “With players like Erling Haaland leading our attack, we believe we can make a statement early on.” Haaland, who is Norway’s all-time record goalscorer with 38 goals in just 39 games, is expected to play a pivotal role in this match.

Both nuclear squads are looking to field their strongest lineups. For Moldova, the starters will likely include goalkeeper Dorian Celeadnic, with defensive support from Valeriu Revenco, Alexei Craciun, Anton Baboglo, and others. In midfield, the team can rely on the likes of Andrei Caimacov and Radu Postolachi.

Conversely, Norway will likely line up with goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, protecting a defense anchored by defenders such as Kristoffer Ajer and Leo Østigård. The midfield will see the influential Martin Ødegaard take charge, alongside players like Sander Berge and others, while Haaland partners up front with Alexander Sørloth.

Historically, Moldova has struggled against Norway, winning none of their five previous encounters, with the closest result being a 0-0 draw in 2005.

With both teams eager to claim victory and kickstart their World Cup qualifying campaigns on the right foot, all eyes will be on the Zimbru Stadium come Saturday evening.

Match statistics indicate that Moldova has been less favorable on the road in past encounters, but their home advantage could play a crucial role in challenging the Norwegian squad.

Looking ahead, the two teams are focusing not only on the match at hand but also on establishing a strong foundation for the rest of their qualifying journey.