Erling Haaland delivered another match-winning performance as Norway edged Ivory Coast 2-1 to secure a historic place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, ending the nation’s long wait for a knockout-stage victory.
The Manchester City striker struck in the 86th minute, calmly finishing from close range after a pinpoint cross from Sander Berge just as the match appeared destined for extra time. His decisive goal sealed Norway’s first-ever win in a World Cup knockout match and kept their dream tournament alive.
Norway had taken the lead in the first half through a superb curling effort from Antonio Nusa, but Ivory Coast fought back after the break when Amad Diallo produced a brilliant solo run before finding the net in the 74th minute to level the score.
Despite coming under sustained pressure for much of the contest, Norway made their chances count. Haaland once again proved why he is regarded as one of the world’s deadliest forwards, converting his side’s best opportunity to send the Scandinavian nation through to the next round.
The victory marks a major milestone for Norway, who returned to the World Cup this year for the first time since the 1998 tournament. It also ends a wait of nearly three decades for a knockout-stage triumph on football’s biggest stage.
Norway will now face Brazil in a blockbuster Round of 16 clash, with Haaland expected to spearhead their bid for a place in the quarter-finals. The prolific striker has now scored five goals in his first three World Cup appearances, further cementing his status as one of the standout players of the tournament.
