Norway advances to World Cup knockout stage with 3-2 win over Senegal

Norway secured their place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 3-2 victory over Senegal in Group I at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 22, 2026. Erling Haaland scored twice, bringing his tournament tally to four goals and continuing his remarkable international form.

Marcus Pederson opened the scoring in the 43rd minute after replacing the injured Julian Ryerson. Haaland doubled the lead in the 48th minute, finishing a sweeping counterattack from a Martin Ødegaard pass. He added a third in the 58th minute, volleying home a cross from Patrick Berg with his weaker right foot from eight meters out.

Senegal fought back with goals from Ismaila Sarr in the 53rd minute and the third minute of stoppage time, but Norway held on to secure the win. Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was forced off injured in the 63rd minute.

Haaland has now scored 24 goals in his last 12 international appearances, with at least one goal in each match, and 59 goals in 52 games for Norway. The 25-year-old is second in the race for the Golden Boot, one behind leader Lionel Messi and level with Kylian Mbappé.

Norway, who returned to the World Cup for the first time since 1998, have assured their progression from Group I alongside France. The Vikings need to beat Les Bleus on Friday to secure top spot and what appears to be an easier path in the knockout rounds. Senegal, suffering their first two-match losing streak in a World Cup, must beat Iraq to have any chance of advancing as a third-place finisher.