- Norway have won two and drawn one of their last three games in all competitions, beating Iraq 4-1 in their World Cup opener.
- Senegal have won two, drawn one and lost two of their last five games, losing 3-1 away to France in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opening game.
- Norway have played one and won their 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage game, topping Group I with three points.
Norway top Senegal in a tale of the tape
Norway are at the top of Group I in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Senegal sit third after losing their opening game. With three points from their opening match, Norway are in control of the group, but the Lions of Teranga will be determined to turn this fixture around in the opening round of the group stages.
This game will see two different football philosophies go head-to-head, with Norway favouring possession and tempo from a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, while Senegal prefer a more physical approach from a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 structure.
Philippe Clement's side are a possession-based team who've played a high-tempo style since he took the reins in November 2025. The tactician will look to unlock Senegal's defence with Martin Ødegaard's creativity and tempo-setting abilities from midfield, while Erling Haaland will be hungry for the ball in behind.
Haaland can unlock the Lions
The Manchester City striker is on a roll for Norway, scoring two goals in his first-ever World Cup game in the opening round of group games. Haaland can make the difference in a game where Norway will be looking to maintain the tempo, while they need to be careful to avoid getting caught on the counter by Senegal.
They have been in excellent shape lately, but are now under pressure after their defeat to the French. A physical side who can sit in a compact 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, Senegal's gameplan under Pape Thiaw has been remarkably consistent since he was appointed in October 2024.
Senegal will look to stay disciplined, athletic and fluid on the turn. They'll look for space to run into, as star playmaker Iliman Ndiaye - who already has an assist in the group stage - will be keen to find Ibrahim Mbaye, who has been Senegal's only scorer in the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far.
Senegal are a threat on the break
While Norway have won their opening group game, Senegal have lost two of their last two away in all competitions and conceded three goals in their only away game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Both teams have shown plenty of attacking intent in this group, but have also left themselves vulnerable defensively, so we're going for over 2.5 goals at 1.96, with both teams to score being a strong play at 1.71.
