Koulibaly error hands Norway first-half lead against Senegal

Norway capitalised on a costly defensive mistake from Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly to take a 1–0 lead into halftime in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I clash.

With the first half seemingly heading toward a goalless conclusion, Norway struck in the 43rd minute after Koulibaly misplaced a pass just outside his own penalty area. The loose ball fell kindly to substitute Markus Holmgren Pedersen, who drove into the box and fired a low shot past goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Although Mendy managed to get a hand to the effort, he could not prevent the ball from finding the back of the net.

Norway had earlier threatened to break the deadlock in the 35th minute when Erling Haaland unleashed a powerful strike from inside the area. However, Mendy produced an excellent save to keep Senegal level and briefly preserve his side’s hopes.

The opening half was largely balanced, with both teams enjoying spells of possession and creating opportunities. But Norway proved more clinical when the decisive moment arrived, punishing Senegal’s defensive lapse to seize the advantage before the break.

The goal puts Norway in a strong position as they chase another vital result in Group I, while Senegal face an uphill task in the second half to revive their World Cup campaign and avoid a damaging defeat.