Haaland Scores Twice as Norway Beat Senegal to Reach Last 32

Erling Haaland continued his remarkable scoring form at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, netting twice as Norway defeated Senegal 3-2 on Monday to secure a place in the knockout stage with a game to spare.

The Manchester City striker produced another clinical display to guide Norway into the last 32, taking his tally at the tournament to four goals in two matches.

Norway entered the match in New Jersey looking to build on their opening victory over Iraq and quickly imposed themselves against the African side.

The Scandinavians created several early opportunities, forcing Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy into a series of important saves.

Their pressure eventually paid off late in the first half when substitute Marcus Holmgren Pedersen capitalised on a defensive error to fire Norway into the lead.

Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly was caught in possession, allowing Pedersen to drive a low shot that slipped underneath Mendy and into the net.

Norway doubled their advantage shortly after the restart through Haaland.

A swift counter-attack saw Martin Odegaard release the striker, who calmly finished past Mendy to register his third goal of the tournament.

Senegal responded positively and reduced the deficit through Ismaila Sarr, who showed composure inside the penalty area after a clever assist from Sadio Mane.

The goal briefly revived Senegal’s hopes, but Norway restored their two-goal cushion when Haaland struck again.

The forward took advantage of another defensive lapse and guided a volley into the net after Patrick Berg delivered a dangerous cross into the box.

The goal marked Haaland’s 59th international goal in just 52 appearances for Norway, underlining his importance to the national team.

Senegal continued to fight and Sarr scored his second goal of the match late on to set up a tense finish.

However, Norway held firm to secure all three points and guarantee progression to the knockout rounds.

The victory means Norway have now recorded back-to-back World Cup wins for the first time in their history and extended their impressive recent run, having lost only once in their last 18 matches.

Norway will face France in their final group fixture to determine the group winners.

Senegal, meanwhile, must defeat Iraq in their last match and hope other results favour them if they are to avoid an early exit from the tournament.