Erling Haaland said he was proud after helping Norway secure a second consecutive victory in Group I at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as his side defeated Senegal 3-2 at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.
The result strengthened Norway’s position in the group standings and boosted their chances of advancing to the knockout stage, following a commanding 4-1 win over Iraq in their opening match.
Haaland, who is competing in his first World Cup, said he was enjoying the experience of representing his country on football’s biggest stage.
“This is special again. Another incredible night and I’m very proud,” Haaland said, according to FIFA.
The Manchester City striker also highlighted his excitement at finally playing in the tournament after years of anticipation.
“You can see it. The World Cup is fun,” he said.
Haaland has been one of the standout performers in the group stage so far, scoring twice against Iraq before adding another two goals in the win over Senegal.
His four goals place him among the leading scorers in the Golden Boot race at the tournament, level with France captain Kylian Mbappé and just behind Argentina’s Lionel Messi, who has five.
Norway have taken six points from their opening two matches, with Haaland’s form proving central to their strong start under coach Ståle Solbakken.
The team’s return to the World Cup finals for the first time in 28 years has already drawn attention, with supporters encouraged by their early performances.
The victory over Senegal also added an unusual historical note. Norway have now recorded World Cup wins against teams from four different confederations, having previously beaten Mexico in 1994, Brazil in 1998, Iraq in the current tournament, and Senegal in their latest outing.
Norway will conclude their Group I campaign against France in their final group match, a fixture that will determine top spot in the group and test their consistency against one of the tournament favorites.
