Senegal’s hopes of progressing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a major setback after a thrilling 3-2 defeat to Norway on Monday, leaving the African side on the brink of elimination.
Norway secured qualification for the Round of 32 thanks largely to a brilliant performance from star striker Erling Haaland, who netted twice to continue his impressive scoring form on the global stage.
The Scandinavians opened the scoring shortly before halftime through Marcus Pedersen, who came on as an early substitute after an injury to teammate Julian Ryerson. His strike in the 43rd minute gave Norway a deserved lead heading into the break.
Just three minutes into the second half, Haaland doubled Norway’s advantage after latching onto a pass from captain Martin Ødegaard and calmly finishing beyond Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
The Senegalese responded through Ismaila Sarr, who reduced the deficit in the 53rd minute. However, Haaland struck again five minutes later, expertly converting a delivery from Patrick Berg to restore Norway’s two-goal cushion at 3-1.
The Norwegian forward celebrated in front of the travelling supporters, who responded with their trademark Viking Row chant. His latest brace took his World Cup tally to four goals and further strengthened his position among the tournament’s leading scorers.
Haaland has now found the net in each of Norway’s last 12 international matches, amassing 24 goals during that run. The 25-year-old has scored 59 times in 52 appearances for his country and joins an exclusive list of players to score braces in each of their first two World Cup outings.
Sarr added a second goal deep into stoppage time, but Senegal could not find an equaliser as Norway held on for all three points.
With two wins from two matches, Norway have guaranteed their place in the knockout rounds from Group I alongside France national football team. They will face France in their final group match to determine the group winner.
Senegal, meanwhile, remain without a point after two games and must defeat Iraq national football team in their final group fixture while hoping other results go their way to stand any chance of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.
The defeat marks the first time Senegal have lost their opening two matches at a World Cup, placing their tournament future in serious jeopardy.