Norway secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Ivory Coast in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 at Dallas Stadium, booking their place in the Round of 16.
The match began cautiously, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances and failing to test the goalkeepers early on. Norway broke the deadlock just before halftime through Antonio Nusa, whose brilliant right-footed strike found the corner of the net to give the Vikings a 1–0 lead at the break.
Ivory Coast came out with greater intensity in the second half, pushing for an equalizer. Their best opportunity arrived in the 55th minute when Nicolas Pépé forced a fine save from Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland. Norway responded with dangerous counterattacks, as Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth both came close to extending the lead but were unable to convert.
The Elephants eventually found their equalizer in the 74th minute thanks to an outstanding solo effort from Amad Diallo, bringing the score level at 1–1.
Norway continued to press for a winner and were rewarded in the 86th minute. Patrick Berg delivered an excellent pass to Erling Haaland, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net to seal a 2–1 victory.
In the sixth minute of stoppage time, Ørjan Nyland produced a superb save to deny Amad Diallo's stunning free-kick, ensuring Ivory Coast's final clear chance went begging.
With the win, Norway advanced to the Round of 16, where they will face Brazil on July 5 at New York/New Jersey Stadium.
