Norway Defeats Senegal 3-2 in Rain-Soaked Thriller, Clinches First Knockout Berth Since 1998
Norway secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Senegal in a Women's World Cup group stage match at New York New Jersey Stadium, advancing to the knockout phase for the first time since 1998. The match was played in persistent rainy conditions.
First Half: Norway Strikes Late
Norway took the lead late in the first half. Kristoffer Ajer scored following defensive errors by Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly and goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. Marcus Holmgren Pedersen also found the net for Norway before the break, giving the Scandinavians a commanding 2-0 lead.
Second Half: Goals Galore
Erling Haaland scored twice in the second half to put the game beyond Senegal's reach. He scored Norway's second goal just three minutes into the half, assisted by Martin Ødegaard. Haaland then struck again in the 57th minute, again capitalizing on a crucial error by Koulibaly.
Haaland’s tournament total now stands at four goals. His international record is reported as 57 goals in 51 caps (Source 1) or 59 goals in 52 caps (Source 2).
Senegal fought back through Ismaïla Sarr, who pulled one back in the 52nd minute and added a stoppage-time goal. However, Senegal could not find an equalizer.
Group Standings & Upcoming Matches
Norway now leads Group I alongside France, with both teams holding six points. France defeated Iraq 3-0, while Senegal and Iraq remain on zero points.
France and Norway will play for top spot in Group I on Friday in Boston. Senegal faces Iraq in their final group match.
Player Notes
- Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was injured and replaced by Mory Diaw in the second half.
- Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly made defensive errors that directly led to two Norwegian goals.
- Ismaïla Sarr made history by becoming the first Senegalese player to score at two different World Cups.