Norway defeated Senegal 3-2 in a thrilling Group I clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Erling Haaland scoring twice to seal all three points for the Scandinavian side.
The match was played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and began with both teams showing attacking intent.
Senegal enjoyed good possession in the opening minutes, but Norway remained dangerous on the counterattack. As the first half progressed, both sides created chances, but neither could find a breakthrough until late in the half.
Norway took the lead in the 43rd minute through Marcus Pedersen. The defender made the most of an opportunity inside the box and calmly finished to put his side ahead going into the break.
Norway doubled their lead just three minutes into the second half when Haaland struck. Martin Odegaard delivered a well-timed pass that split the Senegalese defence, and Haaland kept his composure to slot the ball past the goalkeeper for 2-0.
Senegal responded strongly and pulled one back in the 53rd minute. Sadio Mane provided a clever assist for Ismaila Sarr, who finished confidently to reduce the deficit.
The goal lifted Senegal’s confidence and renewed their belief in the contest.
Norway, however, restored their two-goal lead in the 58th minute. Patrick Berg picked out Haaland with a precise pass, and the striker made no mistake as he fired home his second goal of the match to make it 3-1.
Senegal continued to press and created several opportunities despite the setback. Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Sarr scored his second goal in the 90+3rd minute.
The forward reacted quickly inside the penalty area to beat the goalkeeper and make it 3-2, setting up a nervous finish for Norway.
The Scandinavian side, however, defended well in the closing moments to hang on for victory.
Haaland’s brace proved decisive, while Sarr’s two goals underlined Senegal’s fighting spirit.
The result gave Norway an important three points in their bid to reach the knockout stage, while Senegal will take some encouragement from their resilience despite finishing on the losing side.
