Norway survived a spirited Senegal comeback to claim a dramatic 3-2 victory in Group I of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Erling Haaland scoring twice as the Scandinavians maintained their perfect start to the tournament.
In an entertaining contest at New York New Jersey Stadium, Norway raced into a commanding lead before Senegal fought back through Ismaïla Sarr. Haaland’s second goal ultimately proved decisive despite a late surge from the African side.
Norway Strike First Before Halftime
Senegal started brightly and enjoyed more possession throughout the match, but Norway were clinical when opportunities arrived.
The breakthrough came in the 43rd minute when Marcus Holmgren Pedersen found the net to give Norway a 1-0 lead heading into the interval.
The goal rewarded Norway’s disciplined defensive approach and provided the perfect platform for the second half.
Haaland Takes Control
Just three minutes after the restart, Norway doubled their advantage.
Erling Haaland capitalized on Norway’s momentum in the 48th minute, putting the Europeans firmly in control at 2-0.
Senegal responded quickly. Ismaïla Sarr reduced the deficit in the 53rd minute after being set up by Sadio Mané, giving the Lions of Teranga renewed hope.
However, Haaland delivered another crucial moment shortly afterward, restoring Norway’s two-goal cushion with his second goal of the evening to make it 3-1.
The Manchester City striker once again demonstrated why he remains one of the most feared forwards in world football.
Senegal Push Late but Fall Short
Despite trailing, Senegal refused to surrender.
The West Africans continued to dominate possession and created numerous opportunities, finishing the match with 17 shots compared to Norway’s 12.
Their persistence was rewarded deep into stoppage time when Ismaïla Sarr grabbed his second goal of the match in the 90+3rd minute.
The late strike reduced the deficit to 3-2, but there was not enough time remaining to find an equalizer as Norway held on for all three points.
Match Statistics
Although Norway emerged victorious, Senegal edged several key statistical categories.
- Shots: Norway 12-17 Senegal
- Shots on Target: Norway 6-6 Senegal
- Possession: Norway 43%-57% Senegal
- Passes: Norway 347-464 Senegal
- Pass Accuracy: Norway 79%-90% Senegal
- Corners: Norway 5-4 Senegal
Norway’s superior finishing ultimately made the difference in a closely contested encounter.
Group I Standings
The victory keeps Norway level on points with France at the top of Group I.
Current standings:
- France – 6 points
- Norway – 6 points
- Senegal – 0 points
- Iraq – 0 points
With two wins from two matches, Norway are through to the knockout stage and remain firmly in contention to finish top of the group.
Senegal, meanwhile, have suffered consecutive defeats and face elimination heading into the final round of group matches.
Player of the Match: Erling Haaland
Haaland delivered when Norway needed him most.
The striker scored twice in the second half and consistently troubled Senegal’s defense with his movement and finishing. While Senegal enjoyed more possession and created more chances overall, Haaland’s clinical edge proved decisive.
His performance was the difference between victory and a potentially frustrating evening for Norway.
