World Cup · Jun 23, 2026 · 00:00 · MetLife Stadium
Final score: Norway 3–2 Senegal
Expert tip
goals: over · Rinalds
Match preview
The 2026 World Cup campaign kicks off for Norway and Senegal on June 23rd, with both nations eager to lay down an early marker in a group where every point will be fiercely contested. With no prior form to analyze in this nascent tournament, the encounter at this early stage is shrouded in anticipation, presenting a true tactical unknown for both managers.
Norway will likely look to the prolific Erling Haaland to spearhead their attack, hoping his devastating finishing can provide the cutting edge against a formidable Senegalese defense. The Lions of Teranga, known for their athleticism and organized structure, will undoubtedly rely on their experienced backline and midfield engine room to control the tempo and launch swift counter-attacks. The midfield battle promises to be a crucial theatre, dictating possession and creating opportunities. This opening fixture is poised on a knife-edge, with a 33% win probability for either side and the draw, reflecting the inherent unpredictability. Fans can expect a cautious yet captivating affair, with moments of individual brilliance likely to decide the outcome.
1. O. Nyland, 26. J. Ryerson, 3. K. Ajer, 17. T. Heggem, 5. D. Wolfe, 10. M. Odegaard, 8. S. Berge, 14. F. Aursnes, 20. A. Nusa, 7. A. Sorloth, 9. E. Haaland
16. E. Mendy, 15. K. Diatta, 3. K. Koulibaly, 19. M. Niakhate, 25. M. Diouf, 5. I. Gueye, 26. P. Gueye, 18. I. Sarr, 8. L. Camara, 10. S. Mane, 11. N. Jackson
Match events
13' subst Substitution 1 — J. Ryerson (Norway) (assists: M. Pedersen)
43' Goal Normal Goal — M. Pedersen (Norway)
46' subst Substitution 2 — F. Aursnes (Norway) (assists: P. Berg)
48' Goal Normal Goal — E. Haaland (Norway) (assists: M. Odegaard)
53' Goal Normal Goal — I. Sarr (Senegal) (assists: S. Mane)
54' subst Substitution 1 — M. Diouf (Senegal) (assists: I. Jakobs)
54' subst Substitution 2 — P. Gueye (Senegal) (assists: I. Mbaye)
58' Goal Normal Goal — E. Haaland (Norway) (assists: P. Berg)
63' subst Substitution 3 — E. Mendy (Senegal) (assists: M. Diaw)
63' subst Substitution 4 — L. Camara (Senegal) (assists: P. Ciss)
71' subst Substitution 3 — A. Nusa (Norway) (assists: A. Schjelderup)
72' subst Substitution 5 — K. Koulibaly (Senegal) (assists: P. M. Sarr)
84' subst Substitution 4 — T. Heggem (Norway) (assists: L. Ostigard)
84' subst Substitution 5 — A. Sorloth (Norway) (assists: O. Bobb)
Global 
.png)
