2026 FIFA World Cup | Group I | Tuesday June 22, 2026
- Senegal 2-3 Norway
Senegal’s World Cup dream is in serious danger after a 3-2 defeat to Norway left the Lions of Teranga on the brink of an early exit from the FIFA World Cup.
Tipped by many as one of Africa’s strongest contenders in North America, Senegal have instead endured a nightmare start, losing both of their Group I matches and leaving themselves with little margin for error.
Monday’s defeat at New York/New Jersey Stadium followed a similar script to their opening 3-1 loss to France, moments of promise overshadowed by costly mistakes.
Senegal were punished two minutes before half-time when captain Kalidou Koulibaly’s error allowed Marcus Holmgren Pedersen to fire Norway ahead.
Things went from bad to worse shortly after the restart. Martin Odegaard split the Senegal defence with a precise pass and Erling Haaland calmly finished to double Norway’s advantage in the 48th minute.
Ismaila Sarr quickly gave Senegal hope, pulling one back five minutes later, but Haaland struck again almost immediately, tapping home his second of the night and fourth of the tournament.
Sarr grabbed another deep into stoppage time to set up a tense finish, but Norway held on to secure victory and a place in the Round of 32 with a game to spare.
For Senegal, the defeat leaves them bottom of Group I without a point, while France and Norway have already secured qualification on six points each.
The best Senegal can now hope for is one of the tournament’s eight best third-placed spots. To stand any chance, they must beat Iraq in Toronto on Friday and hope other results go their way.
Despite the setback, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw refused to give up.
“It was a difficult game against a very strong Norwegian side,” Thiaw said. “We conceded at the worst possible moments, just before half-time and immediately after the break.
“But we’re not out. We still have a chance and we must focus on the final game.”
Forward Ismaila Sarr also remained optimistic;
“We’re disappointed, but it’s not over,” Sarr said. “There’s still one game to play and we’re going there to win.”
For a team expected to challenge deep into the tournament, Senegal now have to beat Iraq and hope, or head home early.
All the remaining matches of the FIFA World Cup will be broadcast live on DStv across four dedicated channels.
