World Cup: Haaland scores twice as Norway beat Senegal in five-goal thriller

Norway defeated Senegal 3-2 in a thrilling Group I match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, with Erling Haaland scoring a brace to secure all three points for the Scandinavian side.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the match was played at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, U.S.

The match started with both teams showing attacking intent.

Senegal enjoyed good spells of possession in the opening minutes, but Norway remained dangerous on the counter.

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As the first half progressed, both sides created chances, but neither could find the breakthrough until late in the half.

Norway eventually took the lead in the 43rd minute through Marcus Pedersen. The defender made the most of an opportunity inside the box and calmly finished to put his side ahead.

The goal came at a crucial time and gave Norway a psychological advantage heading into halftime.

Just three minutes into the second half, Norway doubled their lead through Erling Haaland.

Martin Odegaard delivered a well-timed pass that split the Senegalese defence, and Haaland showed great composure to slot the ball past the goalkeeper for 2-0.

Senegal responded strongly, pulling one back in the 53rd minute. Sadio Mane provided a clever assist for Ismaila Sarr, who finished confidently to reduce the deficit.

The goal lifted Senegal’s confidence and gave them renewed belief in the contest.

However, Norway quickly restored their two-goal advantage in the 58th minute.

Patrick Berg picked out Haaland with a precise pass, and the striker made no mistake as he fired home his second goal of the match to make it 3-1.

Despite the setback, Senegal continued to press forward and created several opportunities. Their determination paid off deep into stoppage time when Sarr grabbed his second goal of the game in the 90+3rd minute.

The forward reacted quickly inside the penalty area to beat the goalkeeper and make it 3-2.

The late goal set up a nervous finish for Norway, but the Scandinavian side defended well in the closing moments to hold on for the victory.

Haaland’s brace proved decisive, while Sarr’s two goals highlighted Senegal’s fighting spirit.

The result gave Norway an important three points as they sealed their place in the knockout stage, while Senegal are also all but out after losing their opening group game against France.

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