
- Fixture: Estonia vs Norway
- Date: Monday, 9 June 2025
- Venue: A. Le Coq Arena, Tallinn, Estonia
Match Preview
Estonia welcome a red-hot Norway to Tallinn for a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying clash, but the mood in both camps could hardly be more different. The hosts, under Jürgen Henn, are struggling for consistency and results, having lost two of their opening three qualifiers. Their latest setback came in a 1-3 home defeat to Israel, despite taking an early lead through Mattias Käit. Estonia’s home form has been a persistent issue—just one win in their last ten matches in Tallinn—and defensive lapses continue to haunt them.
Norway, in stark contrast, are flying high at the top of Group I. Ståle Solbakken’s side have a perfect record, three wins from three, and have racked up an astonishing 12 goals while conceding just twice. Their most recent outing was a statement 3-0 victory over Italy, with Alexander Sørloth, Antonio Nusa, and Erling Haaland all on the scoresheet before halftime. This attacking firepower, combined with a solid midfield orchestrated by Martin Ødegaard, has made Norway the team to beat in the group.
Injuries and suspensions are a major concern for Estonia. They are missing several key defenders, including captain Karol Mets, Joonas Tamm, Michael Lilander, Artur Pikk, and Kristo Hussar, plus experienced forward Sergei Zenjov and striker Erik Sorga. Kevor Palumets and Rasmus Peetson have both been suspended, though Palumets is expected to return for this match. Norway, meanwhile, are without defenders Andreas Hanche-Olsen, Stian Gregersen, and Fredrik Bjørkan, as well as midfielder Jens Hauge and Kristian Thorstvedt, but their squad depth—especially up front—remains formidable.
Estonia’s recent form is troubling: two wins, one draw, and six defeats in their last nine matches. They have conceded seven goals in their three qualifiers, underscoring defensive frailties. Norway, conversely, have won five straight games in all competitions and have scored three or more goals in each of their last five outings. Their away record is perfect in this campaign, and their overall momentum suggests they will look to kill the game early, exploiting Estonia’s depleted backline.
Key Players
Estonia:
- Mattias Käit: The Rapid București midfielder is Estonia’s main attacking threat and recently scored against Israel. His energy and directness from midfield are crucial for any hope of an upset.
- Karl Hein: The Arsenal goalkeeper and team captain will need to be at his very best to keep Norway’s prolific attack at bay.
Norway:
- Erling Haaland: The Manchester City striker is in devastating form, scoring in five straight international matches. He is the focal point of Norway’s attack and a constant threat in the box.
- Martin Ødegaard: The Arsenal playmaker is the creative engine, dictating tempo and linking midfield to attack. His vision and passing will be key to unlocking Estonia’s defense.
- Alexander Sørloth and Antonio Nusa: Both scored against Italy and provide additional firepower and width, making Norway’s attack multidimensional.
Prediction
Given the gulf in class, form, and squad availability, Norway are overwhelming favorites. Estonia’s defensive absences and poor home record make it hard to see them resisting Norway’s relentless attack. Expect Norway to dominate possession, create numerous chances, and likely secure a comfortable win. The most probable scoreline is a 3-0 victory for Norway.
Betting Markets & Odds
Market | Selection | Odds (Fractional) | Bet Now |
---|---|---|---|
Match Result | Norway | 1/12 | Bet Now |
Correct Score | Norway 3-0 | 9/2 | Bet Now |
Over 2.5 Goals | Yes | 8/13 | Bet Now |
Both Teams to Score | No | 2/5 | Bet Now |
Norway -2.5 (Asian Handicap) | Norway -2.5 | 11/8 | Bet Now |
First Goalscorer | Erling Haaland | 9/4 | Bet Now |
Half-Time/Full-Time | Norway/Norway | 4/7 | Bet Now |
Odds are indicative and may vary. Norway are expected to win comfortably, with Haaland a strong favorite to open the scoring and a high likelihood of three or more goals in the match.
Summary:
Estonia, depleted and out of form, face a Norway side in full flow and brimming with attacking talent. With the visitors aiming to maintain their perfect record and Estonia’s defensive resources stretched thin, expect a commanding Norwegian win in Tallinn.