Norway secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after edging Ivory Coast 2-1 in a closely fought knockout clash. Erling Haaland scored the decisive goal late in the second half to seal the win and set up a mouthwatering last-16 meeting with Brazil.

Nusa opens scoring, Diallo sparks Ivory Coast fightback

Ivory Coast enjoyed the better start and created several early chances but failed to convert them. Norway made the most of their first major opportunity when Antonio Nusa curled a superb strike into the top corner to put his side ahead.

Also Read । Son Heung-min apologises after South Korea’s World Cup exit

The African side responded strongly after the break, with substitute Amad Diallo making an instant impact.

Erling Haaland winning goal in Ivory Coast vs Norway FIFA World Cup Round of 32 game pic.twitter.com/EKnCOfNumV— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) June 30, 2026

The winger first prevented Norway from doubling their lead with a goal-line clearance before producing a brilliant solo effort at the other end. Diallo dribbled past multiple defenders and finished calmly to level the score at 1-1, giving Ivory Coast renewed hope.

Haaland settles thriller, Brazil await Norway

With the match heading towards extra time, Norway found the breakthrough in the closing stages. Patrick Berg slipped a pass into the box for Haaland, who kept his composure to guide the ball into the net in the 86th minute.

Also Read । Ronald Koeman’s future uncertain after Netherlands crash out of FIFA World Cup 2026

Ivory Coast pushed hard for another equaliser during stoppage time, but Norway’s defence stood firm to protect their slender advantage.

#87’

Goaaal Haaland

Ivory Coast 🇨🇮 1-2 🇳🇴 Norway

Yayayayyaaa…. @azamtvrw @exibine_ @BBKIGALIFM 89.7 FM pic.twitter.com/9D0arjPA6r— IMFURAYACU Jean Luc (@imfuraluc01) June 30, 2026

The victory sends Norway into the Round of 16, where they will face tournament favourites Brazil. Haaland once again proved the difference with a crucial knockout goal, while Diallo’s impressive display was not enough to keep Ivory Coast’s World Cup campaign alive.

Norway will now look to carry this momentum into one of the toughest tests of the tournament, while Ivory Coast bow out after producing a spirited performance that fell just short at the decisive moment.