Haaland's late goal sends Norway past Ivory Coast to face Brazil

Norway advanced to the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 on Tuesday in Dallas, securing a knockout-stage matchup with Brazil.

Antonio Nusa opened the scoring for Norway in the 39th minute with a composed finish. The 21-year-old RB Leipzig winger dribbled into the box from the left, shifted his body, and placed the ball into the upper left corner of goalkeeper Fofana's net.

Ivory Coast equalized in the 74th minute when Amad Diallo, introduced as a substitute, leveled the match with what sources described as a fine piece of play. The goal set up a tense final stretch with the match appearing headed toward extra time.

Erling Haaland settled the contest in the 86th minute, scoring what proved to be the decisive goal. The Manchester City striker received a pass from Patrick Berg and finished to secure Norway's passage. Haaland has now scored five goals in the tournament. Goalkeeper Orjan Nyland made two crucial saves late in the match to preserve the victory.

The match was played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Ivory Coast created several opportunities throughout the contest, with Nicolas Pépé and Yan Diomandé posing problems for Norway's defense in the opening half hour. However, Norway's efficiency over the full 90 minutes proved decisive.

Norway will face Brazil in the round of 16 on July 5 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The match is scheduled for 5 p.m. Brasília time. Brazil advanced to this stage by defeating Japan 2-1 and is managed by Carlo Ancelotti. The winner will advance to the quarterfinals to face the victor of the Mexico-Ecuador match.

Norway's record in the tournament stands at three wins in four matches, with ten goals scored and eight conceded. The team's only loss came in a 4-1 defeat to France in the final group-stage match, when Norway fielded a reserve lineup to rest key players.