The night at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey witnessed an epic battle. Norway, with the fury of their Vikings, defeated Senegal 3-2 and sealed their qualification for the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. The match, corresponding to Group I, had everything: goals, injuries, torrential rain, and an unstoppable Haaland.
The first half was a constant back-and-forth. Norway pressed from the start, accumulating four corner kicks in the opening minutes. Senegal responded with dangerous counterattacks led by Sadio Mané. But Julian Ryerson’s injury forced the entry of Marcus Pedersen, who broke the deadlock at minute 43 with a powerful right-footed shot that left Mendy with no chance.
In the second half, Norway came out determined to finish the game. At minute 48, Odegaard set up Haaland, who finished with class to make it 2-0. But Senegal did not give up: at minute 53, Ismaila Sarr pulled one back after a great team move. The African hope was short-lived. At minute 58, Haaland appeared again with a technical gem to score the 3-1 and put the icing on the cake.
Senegal tried to react, but goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s injury at minute 67 complicated their plans. Mory Diaw came on in his place, but Mané’s team lacked depth against a well-organized Norwegian defense. In the dying moments, Sarr scored again to reduce the deficit, but it was not enough. Norway took all three points and left Senegal on the brink of elimination.
The weather also played a role. The National Weather Service issued a flood alert for the area, and New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged fans to take precautions. «No destination is worth risking your safety,» he warned. Despite the rain, the 80,000-seat stadium vibrated with a match that will be remembered.
With this result, Norway has 6 points and secures their place in the next round. Senegal, on the other hand, must win their next match and hope for other results to avoid elimination. The next matchday will be decisive for the Lions of Teranga.
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Para mí Senegal se la creyó y vinieron a hacerse los picantes, pero Haaland les partió el culo. Odegaard un fenómeno, estos negros no dan la talla ni con la lluvia ni con Mendy llorando. Noruega es rubia y ganadora, Senegal a laburar y dejar el show.
Para mí este Mundial lo compraron los cipayos de la FIFA. Haaland es un mercenario del gol al servicio del poder. Senegal con Mendy lesionado y la lluvia, todo armado. ¡Viva la lucha de clases! Noruega clasifica pero esto huele a arreglo.