Group I leaders Norway can secure early qualification for the World Cup 2026 last-32 when they face Senegal in a high-stakes clash at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on Monday.
Ståle Solbakken’s side made a statement on matchday one with a dominant 4-1 win over Iraq, while Senegal were edged 2-1 by France, leaving the Lions of Teranga already under pressure heading into round two.
Match Preview
Norway arrive full of confidence after an explosive opening performance led by Erling Haaland, who scored twice as his side dismantled Iraq. The Manchester City striker continues to set the pace at international level, and his early brace underlined Norway’s growing reputation as one of the most dangerous attacking teams in the tournament.
By the time the matchday one dust settled, Norway found themselves top of Group I on goal difference ahead of France, meaning victory here would guarantee a place in the knockout stages regardless of other results.
However, concerns remain at the back. Despite their emphatic win, Norway have struggled for defensive consistency in recent months, keeping just one clean sheet in their last seven matches.
Senegal, meanwhile, were unable to contain France in their opener, with Kylian Mbappé’s brilliance proving decisive in a 2-1 defeat. Despite the result, the Lions of Teranga showed flashes of attacking quality, particularly through teenage winger Ibrahim Mbaye, who scored a historic goal in a spirited performance.
Head coach Pape Thiaw will know his side must respond quickly, as defeat combined with a France result elsewhere could leave Senegal needing a miracle to avoid early elimination.
Still, Senegal have shown resilience in big tournaments before, having reached the quarter-finals in 2002, and they remain capable of troubling any opponent on their day.
Form Guide
Norway World Cup form:
W
Norway form (all competitions):
W D L W D W
Senegal World Cup form:
L
Senegal form (all competitions):
W W W L D L
Team News
Norway have received positive updates on David Møller Wolfe and Julian Ryerson after both picked up knocks in their opening win, with the pair expected to be available. That means Ståle Solbakken is likely to name an unchanged XI.
Erling Haaland, who now has goals in 11 consecutive international appearances, will once again spearhead the attack, supported by Martin Ødegaard and Antonio Nusa in a fluid front line.
Senegal also report a clean bill of health, giving Pape Thiaw the option to stick with the same side that faced France. However, there is growing competition for places in attack, with Ibrahim Mbaye pushing Ismaïla Sarr for a starting role after his impressive impact off the bench.
Sadio Mané and Nicolas Jackson are expected to retain their places in a strong attacking trio.
Predicted Lineups
Norway possible XI:
Nyland; Ryerson, Heggem, Ajer, Wolfe; Ødegaard, Berge, Aursnes; Sorloth, Haaland, Nusa
Senegal possible XI:
Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhaté, Diouf; Camara, I. Gueye, P. Gueye; Sarr, Jackson, Mané
Prediction
This shapes up as one of the most evenly balanced games in Group I, with both sides boasting serious attacking quality but defensive vulnerabilities that could be exposed.
Norway’s firepower, especially through Haaland, gives them the edge, but Senegal’s pace and physicality in transition should ensure they are competitive throughout.
We say: Norway 2-2 Senegal
