Norway secured a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 in a closely contested knockout clash.
The European side produced a disciplined performance to overcome the African representatives and continue their impressive campaign.
Norway took control of the match in the 39th minute when Antonio Nusa found the breakthrough, giving his side a deserved lead heading into half-time.
Ivory Coast responded with greater urgency after the restart and eventually got back into the contest in the 74th minute through Amad Diallo, whose goal reignited hopes of a comeback.
With extra time appearing increasingly likely, Norway delivered the decisive moment late in the game.
Star striker Erling Haaland struck in the 86th minute to restore Norway’s advantage and silence the Ivorian challenge, sealing a dramatic victory for his team.
Ivory Coast pushed for a late equaliser but Norway held firm in the closing stages to secure qualification to the next round.
The result sends Norway into the World Cup Round of 16, while Ivory Coast’s campaign comes to an end despite a spirited second-half fightback.
For Norway, the victory marks another major step in their quest for a memorable World Cup run, with confidence continuing to grow ahead of the next stage of the tournament.