The Lions of Teranga suffered their second consecutive defeat on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. Dominated by Norway, Pape Thiaw's men no longer have their destiny in their own hands and will have to pray for a miracle on the final day.

After their 3-1 defeat to France last week, Senegal used up their lifeline. Against the Norwegian Vikings, Sadio Mané and his teammates had a clear mission: to secure at least a point to maintain control of their own destiny. Unfortunately, their hopes of direct qualification for the second round have largely vanished.

The defense is leaking, Haaland punishes.

Senegal's collapse stemmed from uncharacteristic defensive lapses. Lacking composure, key players like Kalidou Koulibaly and goalkeeper Édouard Mendy gifted golden opportunities to the opposition. Against a predator like Erling Haaland , such mistakes are unforgivable.

Already dazzling against Iraq, the Manchester City cyborg repeated the feat by scoring a decisive brace. With four goals to his name, Haaland is now hot on the heels of Lionel Messi (5 goals) in the tournament's top scorers' chart, tied with Kylian Mbappé.

Ismaïla Sarr's brace was not enough

However, the Lions showed character. Ismaïla Sarr , who scored a crucial brace, tried hard to carry the African team on his shoulders. But the collective fragility at the back ultimately doomed Senegal's hopes. Final score: 3-2.

The equation for a miracle on the final day

Placed in Group I, Senegal has zero points after two matches. To secure a last-minute spot among the eight (8) best third-placed teams , the calculation is now complex:

1. A victory against Iraq is essential on the final day.
2. To improve the goal difference , which will require a victory by at least four (4) goals.
3. Depend on the results of the other groups.

It's a huge disappointment for Pape Thiaw and his players, who had envisioned a completely different outcome in this World Cup. They'll need a brutal and spectacular wake-up call against Iraq.