Norway have secured their place in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a resilient Ivory Coast side.
The Manchester City striker Erling Haaland proved the decisive figure, netting a late winner to settle a contest that had remained in the balance for much of the match.
Ivory Coast made life extremely difficult for Norway throughout the game, showing the kind of determination and defensive organisation that had made them a tough opponent to break down.
Norway had to dig deep to find a way through, and it was their talisman Haaland who ultimately provided the quality needed to separate the two sides.
The result means Norway advance to the knockout rounds, where they will be hoping to build on this hard-earned momentum and cause further damage in the tournament.
Ivory Coast, by contrast, are left to reflect on a narrow and disappointing exit, having pushed Norway all the way before conceding the crucial late goal.
Haaland has been one of the most talked-about players heading into this World Cup, and he once again demonstrated why he is considered among the most dangerous forwards on the planet.
His ability to produce match-winning moments under pressure, even when a game is tight and chances are limited, marks him out as a player capable of carrying Norway deep into the competition.
Norway will now turn their attention to preparing for the knockout stage, knowing that performances will need to be even more polished as the tournament enters its most demanding phase.
For Ivory Coast, the exit will sting, but their display against Norway showed they were far from outclassed and will give their supporters reason for pride despite the final result.
The 2026 World Cup continues to deliver drama and late twists, and Norway’s progression adds another compelling storyline to what is shaping up to be a memorable tournament.
