AFCON 2025
European qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup continued with six pivotal fixtures across Groups I, J, and L. From dramatic comebacks to managerial farewells, fans were treated to a thrilling night of international football.
Group I
Estonia 0–1 Norway
Erling Haaland was once again the difference-maker as Norway edged Estonia 1–0 in Tallinn.
The Manchester City striker scored his fourth goal in as many qualifiers, helping Norway maintain their perfect record in the group.
Despite Estonia’s disciplined defending, Haaland struck midway through the second half to secure three vital points.
Italy 2–0 Moldova
In his final game as Italy manager, Luciano Spalletti signed off with a win as the Azzurri recorded their first victory of the campaign.
Goals from Giacomo Raspadori just before halftime and Andrea Cambiaso shortly after the break sealed a comfortable 2–0 result. The performance offered some redemption after a sluggish start to qualifying.
Group J
Kazakhstan 0–1 North Macedonia
A hard-fought contest in Astana saw North Macedonia claim a crucial away win courtesy of Aleksandar Trajkovski’s strike. The visitors managed to hold off late pressure from the hosts to move level on points with group leaders Belgium.
Belgium 4–3 Wales
In the night’s most dramatic encounter, Belgium narrowly defeated Wales 4–3 in a rollercoaster match in Brussels.
Romelu Lukaku, Youri Tielemans, and Jeremy Doku gave the hosts a 3–0 lead, but Wales mounted an incredible comeback through Harry Wilson, Jordan James, and Brennan Johnson.
With just two minutes left, Kevin De Bruyne struck the winner, ending Wales manager Craig Bellamy’s unbeaten start.
Group L
Faroe Islands 2–1 Gibraltar
The Faroe Islands secured a much-needed home victory against Gibraltar. Goals in either half gave the hosts their first win of the campaign, keeping them in contention in a competitive Group L.
Croatia 5–1 Czechia
Croatia delivered a dominant display in Zagreb, thrashing Czechia 5–1. Luka Modrić, Ivan Perisic, Ante Budimir and Andrej Kramaric were the scorers as the home side maintained their grip on top spot in the group. The result underscores Croatia’s attacking prowess, having now scored 12 goals in just two matches.
