Erling Haaland scored his second consecutive World Cup brace on Monday, leading Norway to a dramatic 3-2 victory over Senegal at New York New Jersey Stadium and securing their passage to the last 32.

Norway's win guarantees them a spot in the knockout rounds with one group game remaining, adding to their strong recent form. The victory underscores Norway's growing status as a contender in the tournament, with their performance against a determined Senegal side highlighting their attacking prowess.

Marcus Holmgren Pedersen opened the scoring for Norway late in the first half, capitalizing on a defensive error. Haaland then doubled the lead shortly after the break with a clinical finish. Senegal fought back, with Ismaila Sarr reducing the deficit, but Haaland struck again to restore Norway's two-goal advantage. A late consolation from Sarr was not enough to prevent Senegal's defeat.

The result means Norway will face France in their final group match, a contest that will determine the top spot in Group I. Senegal, meanwhile, must win their final game against Iraq, who are also without a point, to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

Haaland's brace brings his tournament tally to four goals in two games, placing him among the competition's top scorers. The Manchester City forward's international goal count now stands at 59 in 52 appearances, a testament to his prolific scoring record. Norway's victory marks their first-ever back-to-back wins at a World Cup.

Despite an early injury to full-back Julian Ryerson, Norway dominated possession and created numerous chances. Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy made several crucial saves for Senegal, but defensive lapses proved costly. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly's error directly led to Norway's first goal.

Norway's current unbeaten streak extends to 18 matches, with only one loss in that period. Their consistency and the formidable presence of Haaland have fueled expectations that they could achieve significant success in this World Cup.

Senegal, a strong African contender, now faces an uphill battle to advance. Their performance against Norway showed flashes of their potential, but their inability to convert chances and defensive frailties have put them in a precarious position in Group I.