2026 World Cup/ Norway edges Côte d’Ivoire in World Cup thriller

Norway defeated Côte d’Ivoire 2-1 in the World Cup Round of 32. The match took place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

Côte d’Ivoire dominated possession for long periods. They created many chances but lacked precision in the final third. The Elephants collected 14 corners without converting any.

Norway opened the scoring late in the first half. Antonio Nusa cut inside from the right and curled a beautiful shot into the top corner.

Ivory Coast equalised in spectacular fashion. Amad Diallo, who had entered as a substitute, weaved through the Norwegian defence and fired a powerful strike past Ørjan Nyland.

The joy did not last long. Erling Haaland scored his 60th international goal to restore Norway’s lead. The Manchester City striker finished calmly from Patrick Berg’s cross.

Diallo almost saved Côte d’Ivoire again with a brilliant free-kick in stoppage time. Nyland made a decisive save to preserve the victory.

Norway will face Brazil in the Round of 16 on July 5 at MetLife Stadium.

Côte d’Ivoire exits the tournament with heads held high. The youngest team in the competition reached the knockout stages for the first time.

They played attractive football but lacked efficiency in crucial moments. Norway showed greater composure in front of goal.