Norway secured a stunning 2-1 victory over France in a pulsating World Cup 2026 encounter, while Senegal delivered a commanding 3-0 win over Iraq to highlight a day of surprises.
Norway Stun France with Late Winner
In a match that swung back and forth, Norway took the lead through Erling Haaland's 34th-minute strike. France equalized just before halftime via Kylian Mbappé, but Norway's Martin Ødegaard scored the decisive goal in the 78th minute, slotting home from a tight angle after a swift counter-attack.
According to match statistics, Norway had 45% possession but managed 12 shots on target compared to France's 8. The win puts Norway top of Group D with six points, while France remain on three.
Senegal Dominate Iraq
Senegal produced a masterclass in efficiency, beating Iraq 3-0. Sadio Mané opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, followed by a brace from Boulaye Dia (56', 73'). Iraq struggled to create chances, managing only two shots on goal.
Senegal coach Aliou Cissé praised his team's discipline: "We executed our game plan perfectly. The boys were focused from the first whistle." The result leaves Senegal second in Group C, while Iraq's hopes of advancing are slim.
Cape Verde Edge Saudi Arabia
Cape Verde secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia. The only goal came from Jamiro Monteiro in the 67th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error. Saudi Arabia pushed for an equalizer but were denied by Cape Verde's resolute defense.
The win is Cape Verde's first at a World Cup, moving them to four points in Group E. Saudi Arabia remain on one point.
Uruguay and Spain Share Spoils
Uruguay and Spain played out a 1-1 draw in a tense Group B encounter. Luis Suárez put Uruguay ahead in the 12th minute, but Spain's Álvaro Morata equalized just after the hour mark. Both teams had chances to win, but goalkeepers Sergio Rochet and Unai Simón were in fine form.
Spain now lead the group with four points, while Uruguay have two.
Other Results and Impact
In other matches, New Zealand held Belgium to a goalless draw, while Egypt and Iran played out a 1-1 stalemate. The results have set up a thrilling final round of group matches.
Norway's victory over France has shaken up Group D, with all four teams still in contention for knockout places. Senegal's comprehensive win puts pressure on group leaders Egypt, who face a must-win match against Senegal next.
FIFA reported that attendance across the six matches exceeded 350,000, with an average of 58,000 per game. The tournament has seen 48 goals so far, averaging 2.4 per match.
