Algeria Advance as Norway's Attacking Football Lights Up New York

While Argentina and France were busy doing what favourites are supposed to do, it was Norway and Algeria who offered the most intriguing storylines on a busy Sunday of World Cup football.

Norway's 3–2 victory over Senegal at MetLife Stadium was a reminder of just how dangerous Erling Haaland's side can be when they commit to an open, high-tempo game. Senegal are no pushover — they arrived at this tournament as one of Africa's strongest representatives — yet Norway found a way to outscore them in a match that rarely gave either defence a moment's rest. The win puts Norway in a strong position heading into the final round of group fixtures.

Algeria's 2–1 victory over Jordan in San Francisco Bay Area was a more measured affair, but no less significant. Jordan, playing in their first World Cup, showed plenty of spirit and gave Algeria genuine problems. In the end, Algeria's greater experience told, and they advance with real momentum. Jordan's exit is a disappointment, but their presence at this tournament marks a milestone for football in the region.

Taken together, the four results on June 22 suggest the knockout rounds are taking clearer shape. The big nations are building steam, but teams like Norway and Algeria are making the point that this World Cup has room for stories that go beyond the usual suspects. The final group-stage matchdays cannot come soon enough.