A 5-0 victory over Israel in Oslo was overshadowed by pro-Palestinian protests and political tensions surrounding Israel’s role in the Gaza conflict.
Norway’s emphatic 5-0 win over Israel in Oslo was overshadowed by politics as fans displayed Palestinian flags and banners reading “Let children live” during Saturday’s World Cup qualifier. Israel captain Eli Dasa had earlier appealed, “Football should not involve politics,” but chants of “Free Palestine” echoed across Ullevaal Stadion. A protest march near the venue led to a few arrests as tensions flared despite heavy security.
Norwegian Football Federation president Lise Klaveness, who previously called for Israel’s suspension from UEFA, defended donating ticket proceeds to Doctors Without Borders, saying it was “not a provocation.” Erling Haaland scored a hat-trick as Norway dominated, virtually ending Israel’s qualification hopes. Tear gas was briefly used to control activists outside the stadium, though no serious violence occurred. “It’s more important than the game, 100 per cent, that the bombs stop and the hostages come home,” Klaveness said, underscoring that Norway’s solidarity lies with Palestine amid calls for peace.