Texas: Star striker Erling Haaland scored a late winner as Norway edged Ivory Coast 2-1 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout-stage encounter on Wednesday, securing the Scandinavian nation’s place in the Round of 16 for the first time since 1998.
Norway survived intense early pressure from Ivory Coast, who created several promising chances in the opening half. Left-back Ghislain Konan came close with a powerful effort, while winger Yan Diomande set up Nicolas Pépé with a dangerous cross that forced a crucial save from Norwegian goalkeeper Kristoffer Ajer.
Norway broke the deadlock in the 39th minute when winger Antonio Nusa unleashed a clinical strike from the left side of the penalty area to put his side ahead. The goal gave Norway a valuable lead heading into halftime.
The second half saw Ivory Coast push aggressively for an equalizer. Their attack gained momentum after the introduction of Amad Diallo in the 60th minute. The substitute made an immediate impact, weaving past defenders before calmly finishing in the 74th minute to level the score at 1-1.
With extra time looming, Norway’s talisman Haaland delivered once again. In the 86th minute, he met a cross from Patrick Berg and fired home the decisive goal, sealing a memorable 2-1 victory. The strike marked Haaland’s fifth goal of the tournament and further underlined his importance to Norway’s historic World Cup campaign.
Speaking after the match, Haaland described the achievement as “unbelievable and historic.”
“Reaching the World Cup Round of 16 after 28 years is incredible. It means so much for Norwegian football and could change the future of the sport in our country. This victory has brought our team even closer together,” he said.
Norway will now face five-time world champions Brazil national football team in the Round of 16 in New York, setting up one of the tournament’s most anticipated clashes.
Head coach Ståle Solbakken praised his players for their resilience and determination.
“We have won three of our four matches and competed successfully against stronger and more physical teams. The game against Ivory Coast could have gone either way, but I believe we deserved this victory,” Solbakken said.
The result marks a significant milestone for Norwegian football, ending a 28-year wait for a place in the World Cup knockout rounds and keeping alive hopes of a remarkable run in the 2026 tournament.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
