Norway into World Cup last 16 after Haaland's late winner vs Ivory Coast
Norway defeated Ivory Coast 2‑1 in the round of 16 qualifiers of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Antonio Nusa opened the scoring in the 39th minute, giving the Norwegians a first‑half lead. Ivory Coast equalised in the 75th minute through Amad Diallo, and the match appeared headed for extra time.
Erling Haaland broke the deadlock in the 86th minute, converting a Patrick Berg pass to secure a 2‑1 victory and his fifth tournament goal. The win, achieved at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, marked Norway’s first knockout‑stage appearance since 1998, ending a 28‑year drought.
Coach Ståle Solbakken celebrated the achievement in the locker room and sent a light‑hearted message to Brazil’s manager Carlo Ancelotti ahead of their upcoming clash. Norway will meet Brazil at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 5 July in the round of 16.