World Cup 2026: Haaland and Ødegaard start for Norway in 4-3-3 against Mané’s Senegal in 4-2-3-1

Norway are set up in a 4-3-3 under Stale Solbakken. The coach is banking on a balanced unit, combining defensive solidity with attacking potential, notably with the forward trio of Sørloth, Haaland and Nusa up front. Senegal, coached by Bouna Thiaw Pape, respond with a classic 4-2-3-1 shape featuring a double pivot in midfield and an attacking line built around Mané and Nicolas Jackson.

The two teams come into this meeting in contrasting form. Norway made a strong start to the competition with a 4-1 win over Iraq, while Senegal need to bounce back after their 1-3 defeat against France. This match could therefore reshuffle the picture in a highly competitive group, where France still dominate at this stage.

The tactical battle promises to be intense, with each coach selecting key starters in his XI. Control of midfield and the ability to create chances will be decisive factors in the final outcome.

Reading Norway’s XI

Norway line up with a back four made up of Julian Ryerson, Kristoffer Ajer, Torbjørn Heggem and David Møller Wolfe. That quartet is tasked with providing defensive stability against quick and technical Senegalese attackers. The three-man midfield pairs Martin Ødegaard, the conductor in the middle of the park, with Sander Berge and Fredrik Aursnes, bringing running power and defensive support.

In attack, the trio of Sørloth, Haaland and Antonio Nusa carries significant offensive potential. Haaland, already the scorer of several goals in the tournament, is the main attacking threat. Ødegaard, often decisive from set pieces and through his vision, will be the essential link between the lines. Norway’s bench includes players capable of injecting energy late in the match, such as Andreas Schjelderup or Jens Petter Hauge.

Stale Solbakken is therefore relying on a classic but effective organisation, combining defensive solidity with attacking impact centred on his star forwards.

Reading Senegal’s XI

Senegal deploy a 4-2-3-1 system, with Edouard Mendy in goal as the last line of defence. The back line consists of Krépin Diatta, Kalidou Koulibaly, Moussa Niakhaté and El Hadji Malick Diouf, a unit blending experience and physical power.

In midfield, the pairing of Idrissa Gana Gueye and Pape Gueye offers a balance between ball-winning and distribution. Supporting the striker, Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr and Lamine Camara form a trio capable of unsettling the opposing defence with their pace and technique. Nicolas Jackson will carry the attacking responsibility up front.

Coach Bouna Thiaw Pape is leaning on experienced leaders such as Koulibaly and Mané while integrating young talents to energise the team. Senegal’s bench is also strong, with players such as Iliman Ndiaye and Pape Matar Sarr ready to provide attacking options if needed.

With this lineup, Senegal are looking to impose their game and exploit spaces through the fluidity of their midfield and attacking players.