World Cup 2026: Haaland double sends Norway into knockout stage
Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway defeated Senegal 3-2 to secure a place in the last 32 of the World Cup.
Norway clinched a spot in the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup with a 3-2 victory over Senegal on Monday in New Jersey. Erling Haaland netted a brace for the second consecutive match, taking his tournament tally to four goals in two games.
Substitute Marcus Holmgren Pedersen opened the scoring just before halftime after a defensive error by Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly. Early in the second half, Haaland doubled the lead with a clinical finish from Martin Odegaard's pass. Ismaila Sarr pulled one back for Senegal, but Haaland restored the two-goal advantage with a volley that went in off the crossbar. Sarr scored again late to set up a tense finish, but Norway held on.
Haaland now has 59 goals in 52 international appearances. Norway, who have lost only once in their last 18 matches, will face France on Friday to decide the group winner. Senegal must beat Iraq in their final match to have any chance of advancing.
