Senegal faces Norway in crucial World Cup qualifier after opening defeat and internal issues

This comes after their 3-1 defeat to France in their opening game and amidst various internal team issues. National press reports indicate problems such as unpaid bonuses from the Africa Cup of Nations, the absence of their usual chef, and player dissatisfaction with hotel food, leading them to order meals externally. Additionally, head coach Pape Thiaw's contract expired in February and has not yet been renewed.

Despite these challenges, players appeared focused during a recent training session at Rutgers University. Former international Pape Sarr expressed confidence in the young team, noting the presence of experienced players to guide them. Senegal, who reached the quarterfinals in 2002 and the round of 16 four years ago, aims for a win against Norway to improve their qualification chances before their final Group I match against Iraq.

Norway, led by star striker Erling Haaland, who scored twice in their 4-1 victory over Iraq, also features strong players like Alexander Sorloth and Martin Odegaard, and a solid bench including Leo Ostigard and Kristian Thorstvedt.