Nouakchott: Erling Haaland scored his second brace in as many matches at the 2026 World Cup, leading Norway to a 3-2 victory over Senegal and securing his country's place in the knockout rounds for the first time in 28 years. Senegal, widely seen as Africa's strongest hope, started brightly but ultimately could not contain Norway's attack, particularly the 25-year-old Haaland, who now has four goals in two World Cup appearances.
According to Oman News Agency, the match followed a similar pattern to Senegal's opening game against France, with the African side holding their own for the first half-hour and keeping Haaland quiet. But as the first half wore on, Senegal's defence began to crack. Norway's opener came through Marcus Holmgren Pedersen, a replacement for the injured Julian Ryerson, after captain Kalidou Koulibaly failed to clear properly and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy could not keep the ball out.
Within three minutes of the restart, Norway doubled their lead. Martin Ëœdegaard, who had missed a similar chance earlier, delivered a pinpoint pass for Haaland to fire a rocket into the top corner. Ten minutes later, Haaland struck again with a shot that crashed in off the crossbar. Haaland's second goal overshadowed Senegal's brief fightback after Ismaila Sarr pulled one back in the 53rd minute with a fine finish from Sadio Man©'s superb through ball.
Senegal pressed late to avoid defeat, with Sarr grabbing his second in stoppage time, but Norway held on to seal the win and book their knockout place. Norway now have six points in Group Nine, level with France ahead of Friday's meeting to decide the group winners. Following France's earlier 3-0 win over Iraq, both Senegal and Iraq can now only hope to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.