Haaland double helps Norway edge Senegal 3-2 in Group I thriller
Norway defeated Senegal 3-2 at MetLife Stadium thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland, joining France on 6 points atop Group I.
In a thrilling Group I encounter at MetLife Stadium on June 25, 2026, Norway edged Senegal 3-2 to secure their second consecutive victory. The goal-fest leaves Norway level on six points with France, though they sit second on goal difference.
The first half was a tightly contested affair with few clear chances until the 43rd minute, when Norwegian forward M. Pedersen broke the deadlock to give Norway a 1-0 lead at halftime. Senegal dominated possession but failed to find the net.
Norway doubled their lead early in the second half through Erling Haaland, who converted a pass from Martin Odegaard in the 48th minute. Senegal responded swiftly when Sadio Mane set up Ismaila Sarr in the 53rd minute. However, Haaland struck again in the 58th minute, this time assisted by Patrick Berg, restoring Norway's two-goal cushion.
Senegal refused to give up and pulled one back in the 90th minute through Ismaila Sarr again, assisted by Nicolas Jackson. But Norway held on to claim all three points.
Statistically, Senegal had more shots (16 to 13) but fewer on target (4 to 7). Possession favored Senegal (58% vs 42%), while Norway had more corners (5-4). Fouls were 13-5 in Norway's favor, and offsides 0-4. Goalkeeper saves: Norway 2, Senegal 3. Passing accuracy: Norway 80%, Senegal 88%. Expected goals (xG): Norway 2.10, Senegal 1.70.
Man of the match was undoubtedly Erling Haaland. The 25-year-old Manchester City star, rated 8.5, played the full 90 minutes, scoring twice from four shots, with two key passes and 11 passes. Haaland, valued at €200 million, is the linchpin of this Norwegian side.
In Group I standings, France and Norway both have 6 points, with France leading on goal difference (+5 to +4). Senegal and Iraq are pointless, with Senegal at -3 and Iraq at -6.
Norway's two wins put them in a strong position to advance; they face France in their final group match on June 27 at 03:00 (Beijing time) to decide the group winner. Senegal must beat Iraq and hope for other results to keep their knockout hopes alive.
For more match details, visit the match page. Learn about Norway at Norway page and Senegal at Senegal page. Group standings are available on the groups page.