Norway and Senegal meet in New York in Group I in a match that could prove decisive for both sides. These two nations have not faced each other at a World Cup before, and both will be well aware that this fixture may determine which of them remains alive in the tournament.

Norway’s World Cup history is thinner than their footballing quality might suggest. They have appeared only twice, in 1938 and then again in 1994 and 1998. Their 1998 France tournament was their most recent and included a famous 2-1 defeat of Brazil in the group stage, with a penalty save and a last-minute winner that sent Norwegian football into euphoria. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer played in that team. Norway’s absence from subsequent tournaments has been a consistent frustration given the talent their domestic game produces. With Erling Haaland now in his prime, qualifying for 2026 and reaching the World Cup stage finally matches the individual brilliance available.

Erling Haaland at a World Cup is one of the tournament’s defining subplots. His goalscoring record at club level with Manchester City is historic. Whether he can translate that to the international tournament is the central question around Norway.

Senegal arrive with their 2002 quarter-final run and their 2022 qualification as foundation stories. Their football culture is passionate and technically capable, built around players competing in the best European leagues.

MetLife Stadium in New Jersey provides a huge stage for both teams. New York’s diverse population means both fanbases will be represented, and the atmosphere for a competitive Group I fixture should be intense.

Norway need Haaland to deliver. Senegal need their collective quality to overcome individual Norwegian brilliance. This is a compelling match.