Marcus Holmgren Pedersen gave Norway a 1-0 half-time lead against Senegal in their Group I World Cup match in New Jersey after punishing a defensive mistake late in the opening period.
The first half produced an even contest. Possession stayed level at 50-50 and both sides found space in attacking areas, but Norway looked sharper in front of goal.
Senegal pressed and competed well across midfield, but they struggled to create clear openings in the final third. Norway managed four shots on target while Senegal created only one meaningful effort.
The breakthrough arrived in the 43rd minute. Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly failed to deal with the danger and Pedersen surged into the area before finishing to put Norway ahead.
Edouard Mendy had earlier kept Senegal level with an important save from Martin Odegaard and then denied Erling Haaland shortly before the interval. The Senegal goalkeeper produced key moments in the opening half, but Norway eventually found a way through.
Norway looked organised without the ball and protected central areas well when Senegal tried to build attacks. Senegal moved possession across the pitch but struggled to find space behind the Norwegian defence.
Norway entered the match seeking another positive result, while Senegal faced pressure after their defeat against France in the opening game. If Norway protect their advantage after the break, their route towards the knockout stage will strengthen.
