FIFA World Cup, Norway ends Ivory Coast’s dream with 2-1 victory

DALLAS: Just when the match appeared destined for extra time, Norway’s biggest star delivered once again.

A dramatic late goal from Erling Haaland fired Norway into the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 as the Scandinavian side edged Ivory Coast 2-1 in a thrilling contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

The victory not only ended Ivory Coast’s inspiring World Cup journey but also set up a blockbuster knockout clash between Norway and football giants Brazil national football team.

Ivory Coast began the match with confidence and intensity, creating several dangerous opportunities in the opening stages. However, Norway’s disciplined defense stood firm, frustrating the African side and gradually gaining control of the contest.

The breakthrough arrived in the 39th minute when captain Martin Ødegaard produced a brilliant pass that split the defense. Rising star Antonio Nusa made no mistake, calmly finishing to give Norway a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.

But Ivory Coast refused to surrender.

The introduction of substitute Amad Diallo transformed the game in the second half. The winger injected pace and creativity into the attack, and shortly after the hour mark he combined brilliantly with Nicolas Pépé before firing home a superb equalizer.

With the score locked at 1-1, the match seemed headed toward extra time. Both teams pushed forward in search of a winner, creating a tense atmosphere inside the stadium.

Then came the decisive moment.

In the 86th minute, Oscar Bobb helped launch a swift attack before Patrick Berg squared the ball perfectly into Haaland’s path. The Manchester City striker showed his trademark composure, slotting the ball into an open net to score his fifth goal of the tournament and spark wild celebrations among Norwegian supporters.

Ivory Coast nearly forced a dramatic equalizer in the closing moments, earning a dangerous free kick deep into stoppage time. However, goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland produced a crucial save to preserve Norway’s lead and secure passage to the knockout stage.

Now, with momentum building and Haaland in red-hot form, Norway faces its toughest challenge yet. A high-stakes showdown against Brazil awaits in the Round of 16, and football fans around the world are eagerly anticipating what could be one of the tournament’s most exciting encounters.