The second round of Group I in the 2026 World Cup brings an intriguing clash between Norway and Senegal, two sides with very different starts to their campaigns. The Europeans began their journey with a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq, while the Africans fell 3-1 to France despite a promising first half. With Norway leading the group and Senegal sitting third, the stakes are high: a win for the Vikings could secure qualification, while defeat for the Lions of Teranga might spell an early exit. Both teams have shown attacking intent, so fans can expect a lively contest.

Norway’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Norway enter this fixture full of confidence after their emphatic win over Iraq, marking their return to the global stage in style. Their attack has been in fine form, averaging 1.8 goals scored per match across their last five outings, while conceding just one on average. The Vikings have been particularly strong at home, winning their last eight home matches and maintaining an impressive record of scoring in each of their last 16 games. Their consistency in the first half is also notable, having avoided defeat at half time in 22 of their last 24 matches.

In their opening game, Norway’s attacking power was on full display, with multiple players contributing to the scoreline. The team’s tactical flexibility allows them to adapt between formations, and their ability to score in both halves has been a recurring theme — with over 0.5 goals in the second half recorded in 25 of their last 27 matches. This attacking rhythm, combined with their solid defensive structure, makes them a formidable opponent for any side in the group.

• Norway’s World Cup record so far: W 1 · D 0 · L 0


• Average goals scored: 4.0 · Average conceded: 1.0


• Unbeaten in their last 4 matches (W2, D2)


• Won at half time in 9 of their last 13 matches

With momentum on their side and a chance to secure early qualification, Norway will look to maintain their attacking flow and capitalize on any defensive lapses from their opponents.

Senegal’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Senegal began their World Cup campaign with a 3-1 defeat to France, a result that didn’t fully reflect their strong first-half performance. The Lions of Teranga held their own for over an hour before succumbing to late goals. Despite the setback, Senegal’s overall form remains respectable, with two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five matches. They have scored in 25 of their last 27 games, showing that their attack remains a consistent threat.

Defensively, however, there are concerns. Senegal have conceded an average of 1.4 goals per match in recent outings, and their inability to keep clean sheets could be costly against a side as clinical as Norway. Still, their resilience is evident — they have avoided defeat at half time in 26 of their last 27 matches, demonstrating their ability to stay competitive early in games. The challenge will be maintaining that intensity throughout the full 90 minutes.

• Senegal’s World Cup record so far: W 0 · D 0 · L 1


• Average goals scored: 1.0 · Average conceded: 3.0


• Unbeaten in 26 of their last 27 matches before the France loss


• At least one team failed to score at half time in 29 of their last 31 matches

Senegal’s attack will once again be under pressure to deliver. They showed flashes of creativity in their opener, but inefficiency in front of goal proved costly. To keep their qualification hopes alive, they must find a way to convert their chances and tighten up defensively against a confident Norwegian side.

Norway vs Senegal Tactical Overview and Prediction

This encounter promises to be a fascinating tactical battle. Norway will likely rely on their direct attacking play and physical presence up front, while Senegal will aim to use their pace and technical ability to exploit spaces on the counter. Both teams have shown they can score, but defensive lapses have been a recurring issue for each side. The statistics suggest a high probability of goals at both ends, with both teams having found the net in most of their recent fixtures.

Historically, these two nations have met only once before, with Senegal winning 2-1 back in 2006. However, much has changed since then, and Norway’s current form gives them a slight edge. The Vikings’ attacking consistency and home advantage could prove decisive, but Senegal’s determination to stay alive in the tournament ensures this will be no easy contest.

Expect an open game where both sides create chances. Norway’s recent scoring streak and Senegal’s need to attack make a goal-filled encounter likely. The balance of probabilities points toward both teams finding the net, reflecting their respective strengths and weaknesses.

Norway vs Senegal prediction from BetMines: Both Teams To Score (Yes) with 59% probability.