Ivory Coast vs Norway 2026

Norway Edge Past Ivory Coast in Round of 32 Thriller

In a pulsating Round of 32 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Norway announced their arrival as genuine contenders with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast. The Scandinavians struck first through the electric Antonio Nusa in the 39th minute, the young winger cutting inside to break the deadlock and silence a partisan Ivorian crowd. Norway carried their slender lead into the break, looking composed and confident, while the Elephants searched desperately for a route back into a contest that was slipping from their grasp.

Ivory Coast roared back into life midway through the second half when Amad Diallo levelled in the 74th minute, a moment of brilliance that ignited belief that extra time, or even a famous comeback, might be on the cards. But just as the momentum seemed to swing decisively toward the African side, Norway's talisman delivered when it mattered most. With four minutes left on the clock, Erling Haaland struck in the 86th minute, the prolific striker proving once again why he is among the most feared finishers on the planet and breaking Ivorian hearts in the cruelest fashion.

The result sends Norway marching into the Round of 16, a milestone moment for a footballing nation rich in talent and now finally translating that promise onto the sport's grandest stage. For Ivory Coast, the dream is over — their World Cup journey ends in elimination, undone by a single moment of Haaland magic despite a spirited fightback. Norway, buoyed by the perfect blend of youthful flair in Nusa and ruthless edge in Haaland, will now turn their attention to the next round, daring to dream of how far this golden generation can go.