ARLINGTON, TEXAS: Erling Haaland scored a late winner as Norway defeated Ivory Coast 2-1 to book a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 and keep its tournament hopes alive.
Haaland struck in the 86th minute after Ivory Coast had fought back through Amad Diallo, who cancelled out Antonio Nusa’s first-half opener. The decisive goal ended Ivory Coast’s hopes of forcing extra time and secured Norway’s progression.
Norway, which had lost both of its previous opening knockout matches at the World Cup in 1938 and 1998, will now face Brazil on Sunday for a place in the quarter-finals.
The goal was Haaland’s fifth of the tournament, leaving the Manchester City striker one behind leading scorer Lionel Messi, who has scored six times.
Ivory Coast pushed for another equaliser in the closing moments, but Diallo’s curling free kick was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Orjan Nyland to preserve Norway’s lead.
The victory also eased pressure on Norway coach Ståle Solbakken, who faced criticism after resting Haaland and several first-team players during the team’s 4-1 group-stage defeat to France.
Elsewhere, France will look to secure its place in the Round of 16 when it faces Sweden in New Jersey. Host nation Mexico will also continue its campaign against Ecuador at Estadio Azteca.
Sweden faces a difficult challenge against a France side led by Kylian Mbappé, who has scored four goals in the tournament, and Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, who netted a hat-trick against Norway during the group stage.
