Haaland Fires Norway Past Ivory Coast to Set Up Brazil Clash

Norway secured a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a late strike from Erling Haaland sealed a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast on Tuesday. The result sends the Scandinavian side into a highly anticipated knockout clash against Brazil, while bringing Ivory Coast's World Cup campaign to an end.

The Round of 32 encounter was evenly balanced for long periods, with both teams creating chances in an entertaining contest. Norway broke the deadlock just before halftime when Antonio Nusa finished off an impressive solo run, giving his side a deserved advantage heading into the break.

Ivory Coast returned for the second half with greater intensity and found their reward in the 74th minute. Substitute Amad Diallo levelled the score after sustained pressure, reigniting his team's hopes of progressing to the next round and setting up a tense finish.

With extra time looming, Norway's biggest star stepped up. In the 86th minute, Erling Haaland calmly converted from close range to restore his side's lead, scoring what proved to be the decisive goal and taking his tally for the tournament to five. Ivory Coast searched for another equaliser during the closing minutes but were unable to break through Norway's defence before the final whistle.

The victory keeps Norway's World Cup dream alive and sets up a mouth-watering Round of 16 meeting with five-time champions Brazil. For Ivory Coast, the defeat marks the end of an encouraging tournament in which the Elephants showed resilience and competitiveness against some of the world's best teams.