Manchester City striker scores twice as Norway edge Senegal 3-2 to reach World Cup last 32 with a game to spare

Norway booked their place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Senegal in New Jersey, thanks to a second consecutive brace from Erling Haaland.

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

Senegal responded through Ismaila Sarr, who pulled one back to keep the African side in contention.

Haaland struck again following a defensive error by Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly, restoring Norway’s two-goal cushion and taking his tally to four goals in two matches.

Sarr added his second later in the game to set up a tense finish, but Norway held firm to secure all three points.

The result guarantees Norway’s progression to the knockout rounds with one group match remaining. It also marks the country’s first back-to-back victories at a World Cup and extends their impressive run to just one defeat in their last 18 matches.

Haaland, who now has 59 goals in 52 international appearances, delivered another commanding performance, exposing Senegal’s defensive frailties and reinforcing Norway’s credentials as serious contenders.

Norway will face France in Boston on Friday in a decisive clash for top spot in the group, while Senegal must beat Iraq in their final group match to keep their qualification hopes alive.