Norway Advances to World Cup Knockouts After 3-2 Win Over Senegal

Norway secured their spot in the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup with a 3-2 victory over Senegal on Monday night at New York New Jersey Stadium. The win, fueled by a second consecutive brace from star striker Erling Haaland, ensures the Vikings advance alongside Group I leaders France. Senegal, now winless in two matches, must beat Iraq in their final group game to keep their hopes alive.

The match began cautiously, but Norway broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute after Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly misplaced a pass. Substitute Marcus Pedersen capitalized, firing a low shot that slipped under goalkeeper Edouard Mendy to open the scoring. Haaland doubled the lead just three minutes into the second half, latching onto a pass from Martin Ødegaard and firing a powerful left-footed shot into the roof of the net. He celebrated by mimicking Thierry Henry's iconic corner-flag pose.

Senegal pulled one back in the 53rd minute when Sadio Mané set up Ismaila Sarr, who finished calmly to make it 2-1. Haaland restored Norway's two-goal advantage in the 58th minute, volleying Patrick Berg's cross off the underside of the bar with his weaker right foot. Sarr struck again deep in stoppage time (90+3'), but Norway held on to claim the win.

"He is one of the best strikers in the world. He is not playing for France or Argentina. He is scoring goals for Norway," Norway coach Ståle Solbakken said of Haaland. The 25-year-old has now scored 24 goals in his last 12 international appearances and four in two World Cup games.

After the final whistle, Norway's players and staff joined their fans in the stands to perform the viral "Viking Row" celebration, a rowing-themed chant inspired by Iceland's 2016 "Viking Clap." "It was fun," Solbakken said. "We will not be rowing after the World Cup, but this can be a gimmick during the tournament."

Norway will face France on Friday to determine the group winner. Solbakken confirmed he plans to rest several players due to fatigue. Senegal, meanwhile, must beat Iraq by a wide margin to have any chance of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.