Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the World Cup qualifying match.
Norway
Norway, the clear leaders in Group I, have not dismissed anyone else so comfortably. Even Estonia kept it to a single goal (1:0). The hosts had a measure of fortune, hitting the woodwork twice. Norway also beat Italy (3:0) at Ullevaal Stadion (Oslo) — a standout result. Their winning run now stands at seven matches, with an overall goal difference of +20, including last Thursday’s friendly against Finland (1:0).
Moldova
Moldova are in the midst of a six-match winless run, including five consecutive defeats with an aggregate score of 2:16. Only twice in that sequence did the team concede fewer than three: against Poland in a friendly (0:2) and in the final match with Luciano Spalletti in charge of Italy (0:2). Such an uninspiring start to World Cup qualifying led to his departure.
Norway vs Moldova Prediction
There is no player in the Moldova squad likely to trouble Norway sufficiently to secure even a draw. A routine, wide-margin home win is the baseline expectation, and the hosts have the capacity to deliver more.
