Norway moved into the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup after a tense 3-2 victory over Senegal on Monday, with Erling Haaland once again proving decisive in a high-pressure Group I encounter at the New York/New Jersey Stadium.
The win confirms Norway’s place in the last 32 with a game to spare, extending their strong run of form and underlining their growing reputation at the tournament.
Haaland was the difference-maker once again, scoring twice in a match where defensive errors from Senegal proved costly.
The Manchester City striker now has four goals in two games, continuing a blistering start to his World Cup campaign.
Norway struck first through substitute Marcus Holmgren Pedersen late in the first half after a costly mistake from Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly allowed the opportunity.
Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy had earlier produced several key saves to keep his side in the contest.
After the break, Haaland doubled Norway’s advantage in trademark fashion, finishing a swift counter-attack led by captain Martin Ødegaard. The goal showcased Norway’s pace and precision, with Haaland finishing calmly past Mendy.
Senegal responded through Ismaila Sarr, who converted after a clever setup involving Sadio Mané, briefly bringing his side back into the contest.
However, defensive lapses again proved costly for Senegal as Haaland struck his second of the night, volleying home from close range after another Koulibaly error, restoring Norway’s two-goal cushion.
Senegal refused to back down and Sarr scored again late on to set up a nervy finish, but Norway held firm under pressure to secure all three points.
Norway’s dominance in recent months continues, with just one defeat in their last 18 matches. The result also sets up a mouth-watering clash with France national football team for top spot in the group in Boston later this week.
The French side, led by Kylian Mbappé, also impressed on the same matchday, while global attention continues to focus on Haaland’s form as he edges closer to breaking more World Cup records.
Elsewhere, football icon Lionel Messi also made headlines on the day, highlighting a tournament filled with elite-level attacking performances.
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For Senegal, the defeat leaves their qualification hopes hanging by a thread. They now face a must-win final group match against Iraq to stay alive in the competition, while Norway can already look ahead to the knockout stages with growing confidence.
With Haaland in peak form, Norway’s supporters will believe anything is possible as the tournament enters its decisive phase.
