Haaland’s Brace Fires Norway Into Last 32
Erling Haaland struck twice as Norway edged a thrilling 3-2 win over Senegal to book their place in the World Cup round of 32.
Haaland Builds a Commanding Lead
Erling Haaland treats the World Cup like a goal-scoring machine on overdrive. The Manchester City striker found the net twice at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough as Norway fought off a spirited Senegal comeback to win 3-2, securing their spot in the knockout rounds alongside France from Group I. Haaland now has four goals in two games and shows no sign of letting up.
Marcus Pedersen broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute before Haaland took over after the break — heading home in the 48th minute, then stabbing in his second on the hour. Ismaila Sarr halved the deficit soon after for Senegal but Norway looked comfortable at 3-1. A late Sarr goal in stoppage time made for an edgy finish, but Stale Solbakken’s side held firm to take maximum points.
Two Games, Four Goals, Pure Dominance
Haaland is now only the second player in 50 years to score a brace in each of his first two World Cup games — Harry Kane being the other in 2018. Trailing only Messi in the Golden Boot standings, the Norwegian colossus has 24 goals in his last 12 international matches, scoring in every single one. With Norway facing France next, the tournament’s defining personal battle is about to ignite.
Norway’s fairytale run continues, but this World Cup story is really about one man. If Haaland keeps this form into the knockouts, the Golden Boot conversation will have only one name written all over it.
