Haaland double fires Norway into last 16 for first time in 28 years

Haaland double sends Norway through

Your team did it. Norway 3–2 Senegal on Monday, and you are into the last 16 of a World Cup for the first time in 28 years (2) (4). Marcus Holmgren Pedersen struck early before Erling Haaland took over with two goals, his third and fourth of the tournament. Senegal fought back late through Ismaïla Sarr, who scored twice including one in stoppage time, but Solbakken's side held on.

"We are writing our own history"

Haaland kept it simple after the match. "Nous écrivons notre histoire," he said, we are writing our own history (4). He also poured cold water on any title talk. "If it's about being world champions, absolutely not. We have to be realistic. Let's be happy today, all Norwegians around the world" (2).

France on Friday for top spot

One game left and everything is on the line. Norway face France on Friday with first place in Group I at stake (2). Haaland versus Mbappé, winner takes the group. The French press are already circling, some praising Norway's attacking intent, others picking holes (3).

Haaland already looking past it

The man himself is not getting carried away. After the Senegal win, he flatly predicted France would beat Norway and go on to win the World Cup (2). That is either mind games or brutal honesty. Either way, the pressure is firmly on Deschamps' side.

Fan-reaktioner

The celebrations spilled into the streets, literally. Norwegian fans marched to the Royal Palace in the middle of the night chanting about waking the King up. Sunrise is before 4 AM this time of year, so they had daylight on their side. The "Viking Row" with the players after the final whistle has become the image of this campaign, two matches, two Viking send-offs. See the celebration here