Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway beat Senegal 3-2 in New Jersey to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage. Norway have won both Group I matches and will play France next to decide first place. Haaland scored two goals for the second match in a row. Marcus Pedersen also scored for Norway, while Ismaila Sarr scored twice for Senegal in a late fightback.
Norway score first through Pedersen
Norway took the lead after Senegal did not clear the ball from the penalty area. Pedersen reacted quickly to score his first international goal and give Norway an early advantage.
The goal settled Norway after a slow start. Senegal had more of the early pressure but did not turn their attacks into goals before Norway found the opening. Martin Odegaard helped Norway keep control in midfield. Haaland was closely marked but remained a threat whenever Norway moved forward.
Haaland adds two goals
Haaland made it 2-0 after finishing a pass from Odegaard. The Manchester City striker then scored again with a powerful volley to give Norway a three-goal lead.
The two goals took Haaland to four in the tournament. He had also scored twice in Norway’s 4-1 win over Iraq in their opening match. Norway looked comfortable after the third goal. Their direct attacks caused Senegal problems, especially when Haaland found space near the penalty area.
Senegal score twice late
Senegal scored through Sarr late in the match to make it 3-1. His goal gave Senegal a chance to push for an equaliser in the final minutes.
Sarr scored again soon after to make it 3-2. Norway had to defend under pressure, but held on to secure the win and book a place in the Round of 32.
Senegal remain without a point after losing to France and Norway. They now need to beat Iraq in their final group match and hope other results help them stay in the tournament.
France match decides Group I
Norway and France both have six points after two matches. Norway are ahead on goal difference, but the final group match will decide which team finishes first. Norway are playing at a World Cup for the first time since 1998. Their win over Senegal also gives them their first World Cup knockout place in 28 years.
