Erling Haaland starred once again as Norway secured their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Senegal on Tuesday. The Vikings, making their first appearance at the tournament since 1998, needed just two matches to advance from Group I.
After an opening 4-1 win over Iraq, Norway followed up with another impressive performance. Marcus Holmgren Pedersen opened the scoring in the 43rd minute, before Haaland took over with a clinical brace in the second half at 48' and 58'. Ismaila Sarr pulled one back for Senegal in the 53rd minute, but the Norwegian defense held firm to see out the win despite late pressure.
Haaland scores brace as Norway qualify for 2026 World Cup round of 32 after thrilling 3-2 win over Senegal
Haaland, who also scored twice in the opener against Iraq, has been in devastating form, carrying a talented Norwegian side featuring the likes of Martin Ødegaard. The result puts Norway top of the group with maximum points and sets up exciting knockout-stage football for the Scandinavian nation.
This marks a historic moment for Norwegian football, ending a long absence from the world’s biggest stage and signaling their arrival as a competitive force once more. Norway will now prepare for the round of 32, where stars like Haaland will face some of the tournament’s top teams.
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