Haaland Seals Norway's World Cup Spot Against Brazil
Erling Haaland's 86th-minute goal gave Norway a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast on July 1, sending the Scandinavians to the World Cup Round of 16 to face Brazil.
Ivory Coast mounted a strong comeback attempt after falling behind, but Erling Haaland's decisive late-game finish sealed their elimination from the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 on July 1 at AT&T Stadium in Texas, USA.
Ivory Coast, coached by Emerse Fae and fielding a 4-1-4-1 formation, dominated possession in the first half with multiple chances to breach Norway's defense. However, Antonio Nusa capitalized on a rare opening in the 39th minute to give Norway a 1-0 lead.
Ivory Coast intensified their offensive efforts in the second half, and Ahmad Diallo equalized from close range in the 74th minute to make it 1-1. The momentum shifted dramatically when Erling Haaland fired home in the 86th minute to restore Norway's advantage at 2-1, marking his 60th goal in 53 matches for his country. Norway narrowly held on to advance to the Round of 16, where they will face Brazil on July 6 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA.
