New York/New Jersey, 23 June (H.S.): Norway booked their place in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating Senegal 3-2 in a thrilling contest on Monday (Tuesday, Indian time). Erling Haaland starred for Norway, scoring twice in the second half to lead his side to a crucial victory.

Norway made an impressive start to the match, taking an early lead through Markus Pedersen. Haaland then produced a dominant attacking display after the break, netting two successive goals to put Norway in a commanding position.

Senegal, however, refused to give up. Ismaïla Sarr scored twice—once before and once after Norway's third goal—to keep the contest alive and set up a tense finish. Senegal pressed hard for an equaliser in the closing minutes, but Norway's defence stood firm to preserve the lead and seal qualification for the knockout stage.

With the victory, Norway confirmed their progression to the next round, while Senegal's campaign has been left hanging in the balance. Senegal remain third in the group without a point from their first two matches.

To keep their hopes of advancing alive, Senegal must defeat Iraq in their final group-stage fixture and will also have to rely on other results going in their favour.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar