Norway faces Ivory Coast in World Cup round of 16

Norway’s men’s national team will meet Ivory Coast in the round of 16 at the World Cup, with the match scheduled for Tuesday evening in Dallas, USA. Coach Ståle Solbakken describes the contest as a 50/50 game, noting that Ivory Coast have reached the knockout stage for the first time.

Ivory Coast are highlighted for their wing play, especially left‑back Yan Diomande and forward Amad Diallo, both described as dangerous by Norwegian pundits. Former Ivory Coast player Adama Traoré criticised Norway’s lack of speed on the flanks, while football analyst Bernt Hulsker warned that the Ivorian wingers could “create something out of nothing”.

Norway’s concerns include the absence of right‑back Julian Ryerson through injury and midfielder Marcus Holmgren Pedersen’s recent cramp problems. The odds market lists Norway as a slight favorite, and the team hopes to rely on creativity and striker Erling Haaland to overcome the physical challenge posed by the Ivorian side.