World Cup 2026: Norway 3-2 Senegal Player Ratings

Senegal’s hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stages suffered a major setback after a thrilling 3-2 defeat to Norway in their second Group I match. Despite producing one of their most spirited attacking displays of the tournament, the Lions of Teranga were ultimately undone by defensive mistakes as Norway secured all three points in a five-goal thriller.

Match Report

After losing 3-1 to France in their opening fixture, Senegal entered the match needing a positive result to keep their qualification hopes alive. The West Africans responded with far greater attacking intent and looked dangerous whenever they moved forward.

Ismaila Sarr was the standout performer for Senegal, constantly troubling the Norwegian defence with his pace, movement and finishing ability. The winger found the net twice and nearly inspired a remarkable comeback.

However, Senegal struggled at the back. Norway repeatedly exposed gaps in the defence and capitalized on key moments to build a lead that proved decisive by the final whistle.

Captain Kalidou Koulibaly endured a difficult evening at the heart of the defence, while goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was unable to prevent Norway from scoring three times. Despite late pressure from Senegal, the Scandinavians held on to claim an important victory.

The defeat leaves Senegal facing a must-win situation in their final group match if they are to have any chance of progressing to the Round of 32.

Senegal Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Edouard Mendy – 6.0

Made a few routine saves but could not do enough to prevent Norway’s three goals.

Defence

Krepin Diatta – 6.5

Worked hard on the right side and contributed going forward, but was tested defensively.

Kalidou Koulibaly – 5.1

A difficult night for the captain. Struggled against Norway’s attack and received the lowest rating among the starters.

Modou Niakhate – 7.9

Senegal’s best defender by some distance. Made several important interventions and was excellent in duels.

El Hadji Malick Diouf – 6.0

Battled hard but found it difficult to contain Norway’s wide attacks.

Midfield

Idrissa Gana Gueye – 7.2

One of Senegal’s most consistent performers. Covered plenty of ground and helped drive the team forward.

Pape Gueye – 6.4

Worked tirelessly in midfield before making way in the second half.

Lamine Camara – 6.3

Showed flashes of quality but struggled to stamp his authority on the game.

Attack

Ismaila Sarr – 8.3

Senegal’s star performer. Scored twice and carried the team’s attacking threat throughout the match.

Sadio Mane – 7.0

Produced an energetic display and helped create opportunities in the final third.

Nicolas Jackson – 6.8

Worked hard up front and linked play effectively, although he was unable to find the net.

Substitutes

Ibrahim Mbaye – 7.3

Made an excellent impact after coming on and brought energy to the attack.

Pathe Ismael Ciss – 7.2

Helped Senegal gain more control in midfield during the closing stages.

Mory Diaw – 6.8

Stepped in after Mendy’s injury and looked composed.

Ismail Jakobs – 6.6

Provided fresh legs on the left flank.

Pape Matar Sarr – 6.5

Added energy but could not help Senegal find a late equaliser.

Verdict

Ismaila Sarr was outstanding and deserved far more from the match, while Modou Niakhate and Idrissa Gana Gueye also impressed. However, defensive lapses proved costly as Senegal suffered a defeat that leaves their World Cup future hanging in the balance.