The article discusses the ongoing contrast between Norwegian and Italian football, particularly in light of recent matches where Norwegian teams have outperformed their Italian counterparts. Notably, the Norwegian national team recently triumphed over Italy, scoring a remarkable 10-2 aggregate in their last three encounters. Such performances have led to a sense of embarrassment in Italy, as the country traditionally holds a strong position in the world of football.

Critics, including journalist Chiara Zucchelli from Corriere Dello Sport, have highlighted the troubling trend that while Norway excels in winter sports, it is also making strides in football. With significant wins against prestigious teams like Inter Milan and a successful qualification for their first World Cup in 28 years, Norway is receiving attention for their football prowess. Meanwhile, Italian football, which boasts four World Cup titles, is now faced with the stark reality of needing to rebuild its reputation after recent performances.

As Italian teams grapple with these defeats, the narrative implies a potential crisis in the national football identity. Luigi Garlan, a commentator, notes that while it's acceptable for Norway to lead in the Olympic medal tally, the repeated football losses are unacceptable for a nation that prides itself on its football history. This ongoing rivalry sets the stage for future encounters, urging Italy to reassess and strengthen its football framework to regain its status on the international stage.