Surprise scorer Pedersen: Norway lead 1-0 at the break

In 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I, Norway closed the first half 1-0 up against Senegal at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. After beating Iraq 4-1 in their opener, Norway managed to go ahead at the end of an even first 45 minutes.

Norway suffered a setback early on; in the 13th minute, Julian Ryerson went off injured and was replaced by Marcus Holmgren Pedersen. But the substitute Pedersen soon became the hero: in the 43rd, he found the net to put Norway 1-0 up and send his team into the break in front.

In the closing moments of the half, the stage belonged to the duel between star striker Erling Haaland and Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. In the 45+4, Haaland rose to send a header goalwards; but Mendy made a superb reflex save to keep it out. In the same passage, a close-range Haaland shot came back off the right post; Norway's striker failed to take two clear chances to extend the lead.

The stats pointed to an even first half. Both teams were level on 50% possession, while Norway led on expected goals (xG) 1.03 to Senegal's 0.32. Norway had 8 shots, Senegal 6. The match is being officiated by Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio.

Going into the second half 1-0 up, Norway will look to all but secure a last-32 berth with the win. For Senegal, beaten by France in their opener, this match is close to must-win; coming from behind to turn it around is crucial to keeping their qualifying hopes alive. Despite the chances they created in the first half, Norway could not relax even while leading and will want to extend the gap after the break.

Image: Opta Analyst