The upcoming clash between Moldova and Norway promises to be an intriguing battle as both teams kick off their World Championship 2026 qualifying campaigns. With Moldova riding a wave of optimism and Norway aiming to solidify their resurgence, this match could set the tone for their respective journeys to the tournament.
Scheduled for 22 March 2025 at 17:00 GMT+0, the game will take place at Stadionul Zimbru in Chișinău, a venue with a capacity of 10,500. Referee Jug M. from Slovenia will oversee the proceedings in this European World Championship qualifier, the opening fixture of the group stage. Moldova, ranked significantly lower, face a stern test against #43-ranked Norway, who bring a strong historical edge into this encounter.
Betting Tips and Match Insights
Get ready for a detailed breakdown of Moldova vs Norway prediction today as we dive into their recent performances and historical clashes. This section sets the stage for understanding the dynamics at play, blending statistical trends with tactical nuances. Both teams topped their UEFA Nations League groups in 2024, but their paths to this point differ starkly. Norway’s attacking flair contrasts with Moldova’s newfound defensive resilience at home. Here’s what the numbers and head-to-head records reveal about this matchup.
Moldova Results
Moldova enter this qualifier with a remarkable 2024 behind them, losing just twice in ten matches. Their home form has been particularly impressive, with three consecutive wins at Stadionul Zimbru each a clean sheet. Under Serghei Cleșcenco, the Tricolours are showing signs of shedding their perennial underdog status.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 19/11/24 | Friendly | Gibraltar vs Moldova | 1-1 | D |
| 16/11/24 | UNL | Andorra vs Moldova | 0-1 | W |
| 13/10/24 | UNL | Malta vs Moldova | 1-0 | L |
| 10/10/24 | UNL | Moldova vs Andorra | 2-0 | W |
| 10/09/24 | Friendly | Moldova vs San Marino | 1-0 | W |
Moldova’s recent home victories over Andorra, San Marino, and Malta highlight a growing defensive solidity, conceding zero goals across these games. However, the opposition ranked well below #100, raising questions about their readiness for Norway’s caliber. The draw against Gibraltar and loss to Malta suggest vulnerabilities against teams that sit deep. Ion Nicolaescu’s scoring streak remains a bright spot, offering hope for an upset. Still, this run marks Moldova’s best home stretch in over two decades a foundation to build on.
Norway Results
Norway’s 2024 was a tale of dominance in the UEFA Nations League, securing promotion to League A with four wins in six matches. Ståle Solbakken’s side boast firepower up top, but their away form raises red flags. Aiming for their first major tournament since 2000, this qualifier is a critical test.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 17/11/24 | UNL | Norway vs Kazakhstan | 5-0 | W |
| 14/11/24 | UNL | Slovenia vs Norway | 1-4 | W |
| 13/10/24 | UNL | Austria vs Norway | 5-1 | L |
| 10/10/24 | UNL | Norway vs Slovenia | 3-0 | W |
| 09/09/24 | UNL | Norway vs Austria | 2-1 | W |
Norway’s 5-0 thrashing of Kazakhstan and 4-1 win in Slovenia showcase their attacking potency, driven by Alexander Sørloth’s form. Yet, the 5-1 collapse against Austria exposes defensive frailties on the road. Two wins in their last eight away games signal inconsistency, with four matches conceding 3+ goals. Sørloth’s goal-or-assist streak in five straight caps is a lifeline. This duality lethal attack, shaky defense defines their challenge in Chișinău.
Moldova vs Norway Head-to-Head (Last 5 Matches)
Historically, Norway have dominated this fixture, remaining unbeaten across five meetings. Moldova have struggled to find the net, managing just one goal in these clashes. The Lions’ superiority dates back to 2005 World Cup qualifying, setting a tough precedent for the hosts.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result |
| 15/01/14 | Friendly | Moldova vs Norway | 1-2 |
| 08/09/07 | EURO Qual | Moldova vs Norway | 0-1 |
| 06/09/06 | EURO Qual | Norway vs Moldova | 2-0 |
| 08/10/05 | WC Qual | Norway vs Moldova | 1-0 |
| 30/03/05 | WC Qual | Moldova vs Norway | 0-0 |
Norway’s perfect record (W4, D1) underlines their edge, with Moldova’s lone draw in 2005 as their only highlight. Clean sheets in four of five games reflect Norway’s defensive control in this matchup. Moldova face a steep climb to rewrite history on home soil.
Moldova Predicted Lineup
Moldova are expected to line up in a disciplined 5-3-2 formation, leaning on their recent defensive solidity at home and the goal-scoring threat of Ion Nicolaescu.
- Celeadnic (GK), Revenco (DF), Craciun (DF), Baboglo (DF), Mudrac (DF), Platica (MF), Caimacov (MF), Rata (MF), Motpan (MF), Postolachi (FW), Nicolaescu (FW).
Norway Predicted Lineup
Norway are likely to deploy a 4-3-3 setup, maximizing their attacking options with stars like Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth, supported by Martin Ødegaard’s creativity.
- Selvik (GK), Pedersen (DF), Ajer (DF), Ostigard (DF), Ryerson (DF), Berg (MF), Berge (MF), Odegaard (MF), Hauge (FW), Haaland (FW), Sorloth (FW).
Key Factors to Watch
As we approach this Moldova vs Norway matchup, several elements could sway the outcome. Both teams carry momentum from 2024, but individual and collective factors will decide the day. Here’s what to focus on:
- Moldova’s Home Defense: Three straight clean sheets at home, a rare feat in 21 years;
- Norway’s Away Struggles: Just 2 wins in 8 road games, conceding heavily in half;
- Ion Nicolaescu’s Form: Moldova’s top scorer with goals in four consecutive March breaks;
- Alexander Sørloth’s Impact: A goal or assist in his last five Norway appearances;
- Injury Watch: No major injuries reported yet monitor updates on key players like Norway’s Erling Haaland (if fit);
- Tactical Clash: Moldova’s compact low block vs. Norway’s vertical attacking style;
- UNL Momentum: Both topped their groups, but Norway faced stiffer competition;
- Weather Factor: March in Chișinău can bring rain, potentially favoring Moldova’s grit.
Free Tips on Moldova vs Norway
Unlocking the potential outcomes of the Moldova vs Norway clash on 22 March 2025 requires a sharp eye on historical data and current trends. This section offers free, actionable tips derived from the teams’ past encounters and recent performances, giving you an edge without overlapping the key factors already covered. Here’s how to approach this World Championship qualifier with confidence.
- Leverage Head-to-Head Dominance: Norway’s unbeaten streak against Moldova (W4, D1) across five meetings, with four clean sheets, signals a strong psychological and tactical advantage expect them to control possession and limit Moldova’s chances.
- Factor in Home vs. Away Dynamics: Moldova’s three straight home wins contrast with Norway’s shaky away record (2 wins in 8, conceding 3+ goals in four) this gap suggests Moldova could keep it tight, especially on a familiar natural grass pitch at Stadionul Zimbru.
- Assess Recent Schedule Impact: Norway’s packed Nations League run (six games in 2024) might leave them fatigued after travel to Chișinău, while Moldova’s lighter fixture list could mean fresher legs watch for late-game shifts if Norway fade.
- Consider Referee Tendencies: Jug M. from Slovenia oversees this tie; his card-heavy or lenient style (check his stats closer to the date) could influence bookings or flow, critical for bets like ‘over 3.5 cards’ in a tense qualifier.
- Evaluate Pitch and Weather Conditions: March weather in Chișinău often brings rain, potentially slowing the natural grass pitch favoring Moldova’s compact defense over Norway’s fast transitions, possibly leading to fewer goals.
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Moldova vs Norway Match Prediction 2025
Moldova vs Norway odds lean toward the visitors, but this qualifier won’t be a walkover. Moldova’s defensive resilience at home three consecutive shutouts meets a Norway side that’s leaked goals on the road (3+ in four of eight away games). The Tricolours have transformed Stadionul Zimbru into a fortress against lesser foes, yet Norway’s #43 ranking and attacking stars like Sørloth tip the scales. Historical data reinforces this: Norway’s unbeaten run (W4, D1) against Moldova includes tight victories, suggesting a low-scoring affair. Moldova’s xG at home hovers around 1.2 per game in 2024, while Norway’s away xGA (expected goals against) spikes to 2.1 against decent opposition. Nicolaescu might nick a goal, but Norway’s firepower should prevail. A 1-2 scoreline feels plausible Norway’s class shines through, though Moldova’s grit keeps it close. For Moldova vs Norway betting tips, consider “Under 2.5 Goals” if odds exceed 2.00, given Moldova’s defensive streak and Norway’s cautious approach in qualifiers.
Our Prediction: Moldova 1-2 Norway
| Prediction Type | Prediction | Odds |
| Match Result | Norway to win | 1.23 |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 2.5 |
| Total Goals | Over 2.5 | 1.71 |
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