Norway secured a place in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup today by defeating Senegal 3-2, powered by another brace from star striker Erling Haaland during their second Group I fixture.
Playing in East Rutherford, United States, the Manchester City forward found the back of the net in the 48th and 58th minutes, following an initial opening goal for the Nordics by Marcus Pedersen in the 43rd minute. Senegal fought back dynamically with Ismaïla Sarr scoring twice for the African nation in the 53rd minute and deep into stoppage time at 90+3, though it was not enough to alter the outcome.
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With this crucial victory, the Nordic squad—making their first World Cup appearance since 1998—has matched France at the top of the standings with six points, meaning both European nations have officially qualified for the next round.
Meanwhile, Senegal and Iraq remain at the bottom of Group I with zero points each, though both mathematically retain a slim chance of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams depending on final round results.
