- By Samannay Sen
- Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:44 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The race for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot received another twist on Monday night as Erling Haaland matched Kylian Mbappe's tally with a match-winning brace to send Norway into the knockout rounds.
After Lionel Messi extended his lead atop the scoring charts and Mbappe struck twice against Iraq earlier in the day, Haaland ensured he remained firmly in the conversation with another devastating display in Norway's thrilling 3-2 victory over Senegal.
Norway Dominated Proceedings
Norway's dream FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign continued at New Jersey Stadium as Erling Haaland once again proved the difference in a hard-fought victory over Senegal.
With qualification to the Round of 32 on the line, both sides struggled to create clear-cut opportunities during a tense opening period. Senegal looked organised and disciplined, frustrating a Norway side that had scored four goals in their tournament opener against Iraq.
Just as the first half appeared destined to finish goalless, a costly mistake shifted the momentum. Kalidou Koulibaly failed to deal with a loose ball inside the area and Marcus Holmgren Pedersen reacted quickest, smashing home to hand Norway a crucial lead two minutes before the break.
The goal opened the contest up and Norway National Football team wasted little time after the restart. Three minutes into the second half, Martin Odegaard produced a perfectly weighted through ball for Haaland, who calmly slotted beyond the goalkeeper to continue his remarkable scoring streak for his country.
Senegal National Footbal team responded immediately through Ismaila Sarr, whose finish in the 53rd minute reignited hopes of a comeback. However, Norway's superstar striker had another answer.
Five minutes later, Haaland struck again from close range to restore his side's two-goal cushion and move onto four goals in two matches at the tournament.
The Manchester City forward has now scored 59 goals in just 52 appearances for Norway and sits level with France captain Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot standings, with only Lionel Messi currently ahead.
Senegal refused to surrender and Sarr grabbed his second goal deep into stoppage time, setting up a nervy finish. Yet Stale Solbakken's men held firm to secure a historic victory and a place in the knockout stages with one group game still to play.
Haaland Joins Messi-Mbappe Golden Boot Battle
With four goals already at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Haaland has established himself as a genuine contender for the tournament's top scorer award.
Messi currently leads the standings with five goals following his record-breaking performances for Argentina, while Mbappe also moved onto four goals after his brace against Iraq.
Haaland's latest double ensures the three biggest attacking stars of the tournament remain locked in a fascinating race heading into the final group-stage matches.
Despite scoring twice in defeat, Ismaila Sarr insisted Senegal's campaign is not over. The Senegal forward said, "It was tough. We're a little disappointed. But it's not over yet, there's still a third game to play. We're going to go there to win it, and we're going to work hard."
For Haaland, another memorable World Cup night was about more than just goals and records.
"It was special again. Another amazing night and I'm super proud. I'm enjoying it a lot. I've enjoyed playing for Norway ever since my debut and you can see that. The World Cup is nice," the Man City striker exclaimed.
Norway vs Senegal Match Report
Norway vs Senegal Match Result: Norway 3-2 Senegal
Goalscorers:
Norway: Holmgren Pedersen (43’), Haaland (48’, 58’)
Senegal: Sarr (53’, 90+3’)
With France and Norway both now safely through from Group I, a blockbuster showdown awaits in the final round of fixtures.
The knockout ticket has already been secured, but with Haaland and Mbappe level on four goals each, their personal battle for the Golden Boot may only be just beginning. As both face each other on 27th June in a blockbuster clash.