Haaland breaks Norway's World Cup scoring record with brace to sink Senegal

Erling Haaland became Norway’s all-time record World Cup goalscorer on Tuesday, netting his third and fourth goals of the tournament as Norway edged Senegal 3-2 in New Jersey to seal their place in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup.

Marcus Pedersen gave Norway the lead before Haaland doubled the advantage, slotting home from a Martin Odegaard pass. Ismaila Sarr pulled one back for Senegal, but Haaland restored the two-goal cushion ten minutes later, adjusting smartly to convert Patrick Berg’s cross. Sarr’s second in stoppage time set up a nervy finish, though Norway held on to claim the victory and advance from Group I.

Norwegian media were effusive in their praise. Dagbladet awarded Haaland eight out of ten, writing: “Opened weakly, but then he was back in business. Scored two goals in the second half. What he does scares the world at the World Cup.” NRK went further, giving him nine out of ten and noting he “continues” to be Norway’s talisman, adding that he is “good in the build-up phase” as well as clinical in front of goal.

TV2 pundit Jesper Mathisen was equally glowing. “Haaland loves the World Cup, and the world loves Haaland,” he said. “There are plenty of people in both Iraq and Senegal who have nightmares about Haaland after these two games, and he spreads fear among opponents that only the world’s very best players can do.”

Norway will now face France, who defeated Iraq 3-0 in a storm-delayed match in Philadelphia, in a group decider in Boston on Friday. France hold a slight edge on goal difference, but Haaland was relaxed about the prospect. “Honestly, I don’t care too much now,” he told reporters after the final whistle. “We’re through, we managed to get through which is incredible. They’re probably going to win against us and they’re probably going to win the whole tournament.”