Haaland scores twice as Norway beat Senegal to reach World Cup last 32

Erling Haaland delivered another clinical performance with a second consecutive World Cup brace as Norway defeated Senegal 3–2 on Monday to secure qualification for the last 32 with a game to spare.

The victory in New Jersey strengthened Norway’s growing reputation as one of the tournament’s early contenders and left Senegal facing a must-win final group game to keep their campaign alive.

Norway took control late in the opening half when substitute Marcus Holmgren Pedersen punished a costly defensive error to break the deadlock.

Shortly after the restart, Haaland doubled the advantage following a swift counter-attack orchestrated by captain Martin Odegaard.

Senegal responded through Ismaila Sarr, who calmly reduced the deficit after a clever build-up involving Sadio Mane.

However, defensive lapses continued to haunt Senegal and Haaland capitalised again, steering home Norway’s third goal after another costly error.

Sarr later grabbed his second of the night to set up a tense finish, but Norway held firm to secure maximum points.

Norway maintain strong momentum

The result means Norway recorded back-to-back World Cup victories for the first time and extended their impressive run to just one defeat in 18 matches.

Haaland’s latest double also moved his remarkable international tally to 59 goals in 52 appearances.

The Norway national football team now advance alongside France and will meet them in Boston on Friday in a decisive battle for top position in the group.

Senegal face must-win finale

For Senegal, defeat leaves qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

The Senegal national football team must now defeat Iraq in their final group fixture to have any realistic chance of progressing.

Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy produced several impressive saves during the contest but was later forced off through injury and replaced by Mory Diaw.

Despite a spirited response, Senegal were ultimately punished by defensive mistakes as Norway continued their march into the knockout rounds.