Erling Haaland struck twice to leave Senegal staring at an early FIFA World Cup exit after Norway edged the African side 3-2 in a thrilling Group I encounter at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Monday night.
Despite a spirited fightback inspired by a second-half brace from Ismaïla Sarr, the Teranga Lions were unable to contain the clinical Norwegians, who secured maximum points to strengthen their chances of progressing to the knockout stage.
Haaland’s deadly finishing proved decisive as Norway capitalised on key moments in the contest to hand Senegal a second defeat of the tournament, leaving the African champions needing a favourable result in their final group game to keep alive their hopes of reaching the Round of 32.
Elsewhere, Lionel Messi rolled back the years with a brilliant brace as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 to maintain their perfect start in Group J.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner delivered another masterclass, scoring both goals to guide the South American giants closer to qualification for the knockout rounds.
Messi’s latest heroics underlined his enduring influence for the reigning world champions, while Haaland’s double ensured Norway emerged as one of the standout teams of the group stage.
With the tournament entering a decisive phase, both superstars once again demonstrated why they remain among football’s most feared match-winners on the global stage.
