Norway advanced to the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup by defeating Ivory Coast in the first round of the playoffs. The match at AT&T Stadium in Dallas ended with a score of 2-1. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Match Details
- 01**Tournament:** 2026 World Cup, Round of 32
- 02**Date:** June 30, 2026
- 03**Time:** 22:00 local time
- 04**Venue:** Dallas, AT&T Stadium
- 05**Score:** Ivory Coast 1:2 Norway (0:1 first half)
- 06**Goals:** Nusa 39' (0:1), Diallo 74' (1:1), Haaland 86' (1:2)
First Half
The first half was even, but more dangerous moments before the break occurred near the Ivorian goal. In the 39th minute, Antonio Nusa received the ball at the left edge of the penalty area, moved closer to the center, and with an impressive shot sent the ball into the far top corner. Yahia Fofana jumped but could not reach the ball.
Second Half
After conceding, Ivory Coast tried to increase pressure and in the second half began to frequently attack Norway's penalty area. The Ivorians had a dangerous moment after a shot by Nicolas Pépé, but Ørjan Nyland handled the attempt to the near post. Later, the Norwegians could have doubled their lead from a set piece, but Amad Diallo cleared the ball off the line.
It was Diallo who became the key player for Ivory Coast in the second half. The substitute first saved his team in defense, then in the 74th minute equalized and brought intrigue back to the match.
Decisive Moment
However, the Ivorians could not take the game into extra time. In the closing stages, Norway took the lead again: Erling Haaland used a pass from Patrick Berg and scored the decisive goal. This goal gave Ståle Solbakken's team the victory and a ticket to the next round.
Next Stage
In the Round of 16, Norway will face Brazil. Carlo Ancelotti's team previously defeated Japan thanks to a late goal by Gabriel Martinelli.
Tonight, two more Round of 32 matches of the 2026 World Cup will take place. France will face Sweden, and Mexico will face Ecuador for a place in the next round.