With France's 4-0 win, Portugal's 0-2 defeat, and Norway's 4-1 victory, the latest World Cup qualifying standings have been released.

On November 14th Beijing time, the European qualifiers for the World Cup continued. In the three recently finished games, Norway powerfully defeated Estonia 4-1 to claim their seventh straight win. Mbappé’s brilliant performance led France to a 4-0 clean sheet against Ukraine. Portugal’s unexpected 0-2 loss to Ireland was a major surprise. Thus, the newest World Cup qualifying rankings are revealed: France leads, Norway leads, and Portugal remains first despite the defeat!

Norway versus Estonia: Norway has been very strong in this tournament. Led by Haaland, they not only beat their main rival Italy but also have been winning by large margins in every match, accumulating a significant goal difference advantage. In the penultimate round against Estonia, Norway once again dominated, with both Sorloth and Haaland scoring twice each to secure a comfortable 4-1 victory. They maintain a perfect record at the top of the group, with their chances of qualifying for the World Cup exceeding 99.99999%. Barring any surprises, Norway will return to the World Cup after 27 years, fulfilling Haaland’s dream. Meanwhile, Italy faces a tough situation, likely heading to the playoffs for the third consecutive World Cup qualifying cycle!

France versus Ukraine: France has been the standout team in this group, remaining unbeaten and firmly in first place. In today’s match against Ukraine, a win would guarantee direct qualification to the World Cup. France went wild, relentlessly attacking Ukraine with 25 shots. Although they couldn’t break through in the first half, France took control in the second half. With Mbappé creating three goals, France swept Ukraine 4-0 and secured a straightforward ticket to the World Cup without any doubt!

Portugal versus Ireland: Portugal also dominated their group, but direct qualification was still challenging. Heading into this round, a win against Ireland would have sealed their World Cup spot. Unexpectedly, Portugal played very poorly and lacked creativity. In the first half, Palot scored twice to give Ireland the lead. Portugal grew more frustrated afterward, and Ronaldo was sent off for a reckless foul, leaving Portugal with ten men and worsening their situation. Ultimately, Portugal suffered a shocking 0-2 defeat to Ireland, delaying their path to the World Cup and surprising many!

Written by / Sports Fiction