Norway
Norway were very impressive in their 4-1 win over Iraq on matchday 1 that should have them heading to the last 32 without any issues but we have to be mindful of the opposition they faced before we get carried away with the Norwegians.
Iraq might be one of the poorest teams of the 48 competing at this world cup so the people calling Norway dark-horses would do well to reign it in a ittle until they face better teams, that starts on Monday in New Jersey.
Victory against Senegal here would send out a positive message and also put them into a winner takes all clash with France as to who tops the Group.
Injuries & Team News
Stale Solbakken had no issues on the pitch against Iraq but there were some off the field with Julian Ryerson complaining of a muscle issue following the game and David Moller Wolfe was taken off in the 73rd minute .
Moller Wolfe didn’t look great when hobbling off but Norwegian media are suggesting it was just cramp and he will once again start against Senegal.
There are no issues in attacking areas with Haaland, Nusa & Sorloth enjoying a field day against Iraq. Erling Haaland continues to put up numbers out of this world and he is now on an 11 game scoring sequence for his country. He will once again lead the line hoping to extend that record.
Form
| Last Match | Last 6 Matches |
|---|---|
| 4-1 vs Iraq | W L D W D W |
Predicted Line-Up
Norway possible starting lineup:
Nyland; Ryerson, Heggem, Ajer, Wolfe; Odegaard, Berge, Aursnes; Sorloth, Haaland, Nusa
Senegal
Senegal went toe-to-toe with France for long periods on matchday 1 but ultimately found themselves blown away by a World Class footballer in Kylian Mbappe, this now becomes a critical game for Pape Thiaw’s side as a defeat here could leave them in a perilous position going into the final game vs Iraq where even a win might not be enough to make the last 32.
On the other hand a victory here over Norway would put them in a fantastic position in the Group with an over matched Iraq to come on the final game. They won’t want to be relying on that final match however so expect them to go all out for the 3 points today.
Injuries & Team News
Senegal manager Pape Thiaw meanwhile has a fully fit squad to pick from ahead of the Norway game in New Jersey, his big decisions will come in the attacking areas.
Form
| Last Match | Last 6 Matches |
|---|---|
| 1-3 vs France | L W D W L D |
Predicted Line-Up
Senegal possible starting lineup:
Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhate, Diouf; Camara, I. Gueye, P. Gueye; Sarr, Jackson, Mane
Betting Odds
| Team | Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Norway Win | 13/10 – (2.30) | Grand Ivy |
| Draw | 13/5 – (3.60) | Dream Vegas |
| Senegal Win | 12/5 – (3.40) | 247Bet |
Prediction
Norway 2-2 Senegal
Both these teams were involved in high scoring games in the first round of matches and we might see the same again. It’s a tricky one for the mindset of both with Norway already having three points on the board and Senegal almost certain they will pick up three points against Iraq, would both teams be happy with a point and finishing on 4 points ?