Erling Haaland continued his impressive scoring streak with a powerful goal as Norway booked their place in the Round of 32 with a thrilling 3-2 win over Senegal in Group I on Monday night.Making their first FIFA World Cup appearance since 1998, the Vikings have qualified together with France after moving to six points in two games. They now face Les Bleus on Friday in a battle for top spot and what could be an easy route to the knockout stages.Haaland has also been unstoppable, scoring four goals in the competition and moving with France star Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot, one behind Argentina captain Lionel Messi.
Haaland’s brace keeps the scoreline amazing
Marcus Pedersen, who came on in the 13th minute after Julian Ryerson was injured, put Norway ahead just before the break.Martin Odegaard’s pass was headed straight for Pedersen by Senegalese captain Kalidou Koulibaly, and the striker made no mistake, with goalkeeper Edouard Mendy unable to block it.Haaland then took control.The Manchester City striker extended Norway’s lead three minutes into the second half when he ran onto Odegaard and fired a left-footed shot past Mendy to complete a quick attack.Although Ismaïla Sarr pulled Senegal back in the 53rd minute, Haaland restored Norway’s two-goal lead five minutes later. The 25-year-old shot past the defense before palming away Patrick Berg’s cross with his weak right foot from close range.The goal sparked wild celebrations among a sea of red-clad Norway supporters, Haaland raised his hand to his ear as the fans behind the goal did the famous Viking Row.
Records continue to fall
Haaland has now scored 24 goals in his last 12 games and found the net in each of those games. His career total stands at an incredible 59 goals in 52 games for Norway.He also entered England Harry Kane as the only players in the last 50 years to score twice in their first two World Cup matches.Senegal struck again through Sarr in stoppage time, but it was too late.The Lions of Teranga are now 0-2 at the World Cup for the first time and need to beat Iraq in their final group game to retain any hope of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.
