Norway edged Senegal 3-2 at Gillette Stadium on Monday, clinching a vital Group I win. Erling Haaland struck twice, becoming the second player in five decades to net a brace in each of his first two World Cup appearances. Marcus Pedersen opened the scoring before Haaland’s 48th‑minute and 58th‑minute strikes put the Vikings ahead. The early exchange saw Senegal threaten, but Norway held firm.

Haaland’s first goal arrived from a Martin Ødegaard pass, looping past goalkeeper Édouard Mendy for a 2-0 lead. Six minutes later he volleyed Patrick Berg’s cross from eight yards, sealing a 3-1 advantage. The striker now sits second in the Golden Boot race, one behind Messi and level with Mbappé, having scored four tournament goals. Fans erupted loudly.

Senegal pulled one back through Ismaïla Sarr in the 53rd minute and added a late stopper in stoppage time, but could not force a comeback. The win guarantees Norway a place in the round of 16 and sets up a decisive clash with France for group supremacy. Senegal, winless in two matches, must win to stay alive.