FIFA World Cup 2026: Norway's Erling Haaland shares training snippets ahead of Senegal clash
New Jersey, june 21
Norway striker Erling Haaland shared glimpses from his team's training session as the side stepped up preparations for their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I clash against Senegal.
Haaland posted snippets from the practice session on social media, accompanied by the caption, "The mission continues," which reflected Norway's focused build-up ahead of the crucial encounter.
In Norway's opening fixture against Iraq, Manchester City star Haaland made history on his FIFA World Cup debut, becoming the first men's player to score a multi-goal match for his country at the tournament after netting twice in the opening 43 minutes against Iraq, as per ESPN Insights X handle.
Haaland's brilliant start set the tone as Norway registered a commanding 4-1 victory, marking their first win on the World Cup stage in 28 years.
Coming to the contest, Iraq started brightly and created better early chances, with Aymen Hussein heading over from close range before Ali Al Hamadi sent a shot high from distance.Norway, however, took the lead in the 29th minute when Haaland was perfectly placed at the back post to finish a low cross from David Moller Wolfe.
The Iraqi side responded 10 minutes later as Hussein powered in a header from Amir Al Ammari's delivery, but Norway regained the advantage before half-time when Haaland pressed goalkeeper Jalal Hassan, forcing a mistake that resulted in the ball going into the net.
Despite Iraq missing several chances to level the score before the break, Norway held firm going into half-time.The second half saw fewer clear opportunities, but Norway eventually extended their lead in the 76th minute when Ostigard headed in from a corner following Kristian Thorstvedt's effort.
Haaland nearly completed his hat-trick late on after intercepting a poor back pass, but Hassan made a quick save to deny him, though the Norwegian striker still played a role in the final goal as his late header led to an unfortunate own goal by Hussein deep into stoppage time.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an Indian football fan, it's great to see Haaland shine on the world stage. That goal from pressing the keeper was pure determination. Wishing Norway all the best against Senegal! 🇳🇴⚽
Haaland is incredible, but let's not overlook Iraq's performance. They created chances and showed heart. Norway got lucky with that own goal. Senegal will be a much tougher test.
First win in 28 years—that's massive for Norway! Haaland's impact is undeniable. But I hope they don't become too reliant on him. Senegal has pace and power, especially with players like Mane and Sarr. Should be a cracker of a match! 🏆
Haaland's work rate is phenomenal. That press on the keeper showed his hunger. But I'm a bit skeptical about Norway's overall team chemistry. They need to control the midfield better against Senegal. Good luck to them though!
As someone who follows European football closely, I think Norway has potential, but they need to be more clinical. Haaland can't do everything alone. The midfield needs to step up. Still, it's exciting to see them back in the World Cup after so long!
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