Haaland Brace Sends Norway Into World Cup Knockout Stage

Haaland Brace Sends Norway Into World Cup Knockout Stage Haaland Brace Sends Norway Into World Cup Knockout Stage
Norway's forward #09 Erling Braut Haaland and Senegal's defender #19 Moussa Niakhate fight for the ball during the 2026 World Cup Group I football match between Norway and Senegal at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on June 22, 2026. Credit: AFP.

Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway secured a place in the World Cup last 32 with a 3-2 victory over Senegal on Monday.

The Manchester City striker continued his prolific form, taking his tournament tally to four goals in two matches after also netting a brace in Norway’s opening win over Iraq.

Marcus Holmgren Pedersen gave Norway the lead late in the first half before Haaland doubled the advantage shortly after the restart. 

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Senegal responded through Ismaila Sarr, but Haaland restored Norway’s two-goal cushion after capitalising on another defensive lapse. Sarr later grabbed his second of the match, though it proved insufficient to prevent defeat.

The result ensured Norway’s progression to the knockout phase with a game to spare and set up a decisive clash with France for top spot in the group. 

Haaland Brace Sends Norway Into World Cup Knockout Stage
Norway’s forward #09 Erling Braut Haaland clears the ball during the 2026 World Cup Group I football match between Norway and Senegal at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on June 22, 2026. Credit: AFP.

Senegal, meanwhile, must beat Iraq in their final group game to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Haaland’s latest brace increased his international tally to 59 goals in 52 appearances and showcased his importance to a Norwegian side that has now lost just once in its last 18 matches.

Norway dominated much of the contest and punished Senegal’s defensive mistakes. Pedersen opened the scoring after capitalising on an error by captain Kalidou Koulibaly, while Haaland’s first goal came after a swift counter-attack orchestrated by Martin Odegaard.

Senegal briefly threatened a comeback when Sarr finished smartly after being set up by Sadio Mane. However, Haaland struck again after Koulibaly failed to clear his lines, volleying home from Patrick Berg’s cross.

Sarr’s late second goal ensured a nervy finish, but Norway held on to secure maximum points and advance alongside France to the knockout rounds.

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