CHISINAU, Moldova — Moldova and Norway go head-to-head on Saturday, March 22, 2025, as they kick off their UEFA World Cup qualifying campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
The match is scheduled for 5 PM UK time at the Zimbru Stadium and marks a significant moment for both teams as they look to secure a spot in the global tournament. Moldova, ranked 151st by FIFA, hopes to leverage their recent form as they face a Norway side that has a strong historical advantage.
Last year, Moldova had a successful run, clinching six wins, two draws, and only two losses out of ten matches, helping them to promote from their UEFA Nations League group. However, they have never beaten Norway in five previous encounters. Their closest result was a 0-0 draw in March 2005 during World Cup qualifying.
Norway, currently 43rd in the FIFA rankings, is coming off a mixed performance in 2024, winning just one friendly during the first six months but finishing the UEFA Nations League with a strong 13 points out of 18. Although they missed Euro 2024, the team finished top of their Nations League group with impressive results in the last few matches. Coach Ståle Solbakken‘s squad aims to translate that success into the World Cup qualifiers.
“We are aware of the challenges Moldova presents, but we are confident in our abilities,” said Norwegian striker Erling Haaland, who is the team’s all-time leading scorer.
Moldova’s manager, Serghei Cleșcă, emphasized the importance of translating their home advantage into a much-needed victory. “The crowd can be our 12th player, and we will give it our all,” he stated. The Tricolours hope their solid home form, which includes three consecutive match wins, will continue.
The weather forecast for Saturday is pleasant, with no chances of rain, which should provide ideal conditions for the match. Both teams will set out to earn valuable points as they vie for qualification, with Norway expected to have the upper hand based on their historical performance and recent form.
All eyes will be on the starting lineup for both teams, with key players expected to shine. Moldova will look to their veteran playmakers while Norway’s attacking force will center around Haaland and midfielder Martin Ødegaard.
As kickoff approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting encounter as both nations seek to establish a strong start to their World Cup qualifying journey.
