Senegal Must Avoid Mistakes Against Norway in World Cup 2026 – Thiaw

Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has warned that his side cannot afford any defensive mistakes in the crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I clash against Norway at MetLife Stadium.

After a 3‑1 opening defeat to France, Thiaw described the Norway match as a final and insisted the Lions of Teranga must play flawlessly.

Although Erling Haaland is in fine form—having scored twice in Norway’s 4‑1 opening win over Iraq—Thiaw remains confident that his squad’s top‑class defenders can handle high‑calibre strikers.

Read Also:World Cup 2026: He’s A Great Coach –Endrick Hails Ancelotti

“It’s going to be a tough match, but we’ve prepared well. We’ve scouted Norway closely to see their strengths and weaknesses,” Thiaw told reporters ahead of the game, as quoted by Wiw Sport.

“It’s an important match, a final for us, because we know a negative result could cost us a place in the next round. Norway is a very good team, very strong offensively and athletically.”

“But we’ve prepared for this challenge and are determined to get the win.”

“We knew we were in a tough group. Every match is a final. We messed up the first one against France, but we still have two chances. Now we can’t afford any more mistakes.”

“Everyone is fit and eager to give their all and make our people proud. The players are ready. The team is ready.”

Read Also:World Cup 2026: Iran Travel Restrictions For Games Will Be Eased –Ghalenoei

“Erling needs no introduction. He’s a great striker, but there won’t be an anti‑Haaland plan. There will be an anti‑Norway plan.”

“We have top‑level defenders who have played in very high‑level competitions and have had to face strikers of this calibre.”

“The objective is to get those points, but when you’re up against a player like Erling Haaland, who is very effective, it’s certain that we’ll have to be careful. But the most important thing remains Norway.”