Norway Defeat Senegal 3-2 As Haaland Scores Twice

Norway secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Senegal in an international friendly played on Tuesday, with Erling Haaland once again proving decisive. The Manchester City striker scored twice to guide his side past a resilient Senegalese team that pushed the Europeans to the limit.

The match opened with intensity as Senegal pressed high, forcing Norway into defensive errors. Their efforts paid off in the 12th minute when Ismaïla Sarr capitalised on a loose ball to put Senegal ahead. The early goal stunned the Norwegians, who struggled to settle into rhythm.

Norway responded through Haaland, who equalised in the 23rd minute. The forward latched onto a precise through ball from Martin Ødegaard and finished clinically past goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. The equaliser lifted Norway’s confidence, and they began to dictate play.

Haaland struck again in the 39th minute, this time with a powerful header from a corner. His movement inside the box proved too sharp for Senegal’s defenders, giving Norway a 2-1 lead heading into halftime. The double underscored his reputation as one of the most lethal strikers in world football.

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Senegal refused to fold. In the 57th minute, Sadio Mané produced a moment of brilliance, curling a shot from outside the box into the top corner. The equaliser reignited the contest, with both sides trading attacks in search of a winner.

Norway, however, regained control in the 72nd minute. Alexander Sørloth, introduced as a substitute, combined well with Ødegaard before slotting home the decisive third goal. Despite Senegal’s late surge, Norway held firm to secure the win.

Norway’s midfield, anchored by Ødegaard, provided balance and creativity, while Haaland’s finishing made the difference. Senegal’s pace on the wings troubled Norway’s defence, but lapses in concentration cost them at crucial moments.

Norway coach Ståle Solbakken praised his team’s resilience, noting that the match tested their defensive organisation. Senegal’s Aliou Cissé expressed disappointment at the loss but highlighted the positives, especially the attacking link-up between Mané and Sarr.

For Norway, the victory adds momentum ahead of their upcoming European qualifiers. Haaland’s form remains a major boost, with his consistency in front of goal offering confidence to the squad. Senegal, despite the defeat, showed attacking depth and will look to tighten their defensive structure before their next competitive fixtures.