Haaland brace helps Norway edge Senegal 3-2 in World Cup thriller

Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway defeated Senegal 3-2 at MetLife Stadium, with Marcus Holmgren Pedersen also on target. Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr netted a brace but his team fell short despite a strong second-half push. Norway now have six points, while Senegal face a must-win final match against Iraq.
Norway secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Senegal in a Group I World Cup match at New York New Jersey (MetLife) Stadium on Monday, thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland and an opening goal from Marcus Holmgren Pedersen. Haaland led the Norwegian attack with clinical finishing, while Pedersen broke the deadlock early in the match. Senegal forward Ismaila Sarr responded with two goals of his own, keeping his team in contention with a spirited second-half display. However, the West African side could not find an equalizer, falling short despite their relentless pressure.
Group standings
The result moves Norway to six points from two matches, though they remain second in Group I behind France on goal difference. Senegal remain without a point and face a must-win scenario in their final group match against Iraq to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive. The defeat leaves Senegal with a steep task, needing a convincing win and favorable results elsewhere to advance. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, features 48 teams competing through the final on July 19.
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