FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland helps fire Norway into knockouts

Erling Haaland was once again among the goals as Norway ensured progression to the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026™ with a 3-2 win over Senegal.

The prolific marksman made it four goals in two World Cup games and an astonishing 59 in 52 for his country, with Marcus Holmgren Pedersen also on the scoresheet for Norway.

Chances were at a premium in a tight first half at New York/New Jersey Stadium, but Norway started to click as the interval approached and took the lead in the 43rd minute when Holmgren Pedersen capitalised upon a Kalidou Koulibaly error and gleefully lashed home.

Haaland then got his customary goal three minutes after the restart, calmly slotting in after an inch-perfect pass from Martin Odegaard to ensure he has now scored in each of his last 12 competitive appearances for Norway.

Ismaila Sarr pulled one back for Senegal in the 53rd minute, but Haaland re-established Norway’s two-goal advantage five minutes later when he poked in from close range.

Sarr made Norway sweat when he struck again in stoppage time, but Stale Solbakken’s side held on for the victory they needed to secure a knockout berth with one group-stage game remaining.

Haaland, meanwhile, is firmly involved in a mouthwatering tussle for the adidas Golden Boot with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. (FIFA)