Match starts at 5:30am
East Rutherford, June 21: Norway will look to book their place in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup when they take on Senegal in a crucial Group I clash on Monday.
The Scandinavians made an impressive start to their campaign with a convincing 4-1 victory over Iraq and currently lead the group on goal difference ahead of France. Another win would guarantee their place in the round of 32.Star striker Erling Haaland was the standout performer in Norway’s opening match, scoring twice before Leo Ostigard added a third and an own goal completed the rout. The result extended Norway’s strong run of form after a flawless World Cup qualifying campaign.Despite their attacking prowess, coach Stale Solbakken will be wary of defensive lapses, with his side having kept just one clean sheet in their last seven matches. Senegal, meanwhile, enter the contest under pressure after suffering a 3-1 defeat to France in their opening fixture. Ibrahim Mbaye scored for the African side, but goals from Kylian Mbappe and Bradley Barcola handed the 2022 runners-up all three points.
Another defeat, coupled with a positive result for France against Iraq, could leave Senegal’s hopes of automatic qualification hanging by a thread.The Lions of Teranga are also seeking to end a three-match winless run and will take confidence from their only previous meeting with Norway, a 2-1 friendly victory in 2006.With knockout qualification within reach for Norway and Senegal desperate to keep their campaign alive, Monday’s encounter promises to be a high-stakes battle in Group I. (Agencies)
