Erling Haaland delivered another huge World Cup statement as Norway beat Senegal 3-2 in a dramatic Group I clash, securing their place in the knockout stage for the first time in 28 years.
Norway arrived full of confidence after their opening win over Iraq, but Senegal made them work for every moment. The African side started with energy, pace and urgency, knowing defeat would leave their World Cup hopes hanging by a thread.
For long spells in the first half, Senegal looked dangerous on the counterattack. Sadio Mané and Nicolas Jackson tried to stretch Norway’s defence, while Ismaila Sarr constantly threatened with his movement in wide areas.
But just before half-time, Norway found the breakthrough. Substitute Marcus Pedersen struck to give the European side a crucial lead, shifting the momentum and sending their travelling fans into celebration.
Then came Haaland.
The Manchester City superstar showed once again why he is one of the most feared strikers in world football. Early in the second half, he combined brilliantly with Martin Ødegaard before finishing clinically to put Norway in control.
Senegal refused to give up. Sarr pulled one back to make the match tense again, but Haaland responded with another ruthless finish, restoring Norway’s two-goal advantage and taking his tournament tally to four goals.
At 3-1, Norway looked safe. But this World Cup has already proved that nothing is simple.
Sarr scored again in stoppage time, giving Senegal late hope and setting up a nerve-shredding finale. Norway had to defend desperately through the final moments as Senegal pushed for a dramatic equaliser.
This time, there was no comeback.
The final whistle sparked wild Norwegian celebrations. Players hugged, supporters roared, and Haaland stood at the centre of another unforgettable night. Norway now join France in advancing from Group I, with their final meeting set to decide top spot.
For Senegal, the defeat is painful. Two losses from two games leave them in deep trouble, though a final group match against Iraq could still offer a slim route forward as one of the best third-placed teams.
But the night belonged to Norway.
After decades away from World Cup knockout football, they are back — powered by Ødegaard’s creativity, Haaland’s finishing and a team that suddenly looks capable of frightening anyone.
