In a stunning turn of events in World Cup qualifying, Armenia defeated the Republic of Ireland 2-1, while Norway delivered a historic 11-1 thrashing to Moldova. These results have significant implications for the teams' respective campaigns.

Armenia 2, Republic of Ireland 1

The Republic of Ireland's World Cup qualification hopes suffered a major blow with a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Armenia in Yerevan. Ranked 105th in the world, Armenia secured a victory that has left Ireland's chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup hanging by a thread.

Ireland conceded first for the ninth time in the last 10 competitive games under manager Heimir Hallgrímsson. Eduard Spertsyan, who has a history of scoring against Ireland, opened the scoring from the penalty spot. Grant-Leon Ranos doubled Armenia's lead early in the second half. Evan Ferguson pulled a goal back for Ireland, but they were unable to find an equaliser.

Hallgrímsson acknowledged the pressure he is under, stating, "If they are not producing, then of course it's always under question and it's understandable now. I'm not naive. After this performance, of course I will take the blame for this". The loss leaves Ireland with just one point from their opening two games in Group F, a significant setback to their World Cup ambitions.

Richard Dunne, an ex-Ireland defender, offered a scathing assessment of the team's performance: "That is a recurring theme with this team - they don't have the passion or the mettle within them to go and stand up for themselves. They can't react to any adversity, it's always the same thing".

Norway 11, Moldova 1

In stark contrast to Ireland's struggles, Norway delivered a ruthless performance against Moldova, winning 11-1. Erling Haaland led the charge with five goals, while Thelo Aasgaard scored four after coming off the bench. Felix Horn Myhre and Martin Odegaard also found the net.

Haaland's five-goal haul was a personal best for Norway and the most scored by a European man in a World Cup qualifier since 1977. Despite suffering a minor injury in a bus accident requiring stitches, Haaland was in impressive form.

Norway's victory puts them in a strong position in Group I, with 15 points from five games. They are now six points ahead of second-placed Italy. Norway has not participated in the men's World Cup since 1998.