Norway vs Ivory Coast FIFA match: Haaland featured side put rivals under early pressure

DALLAS: The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 encounter between Norway and the Ivory Coast has started as a tight tactical battle, with Norway gradually taking control while the Ivory Coast stay compact and disciplined.

Norway dominate possession with 77 per cent of the ball, completing 70 passes at 88 per cent accuracy as they try to break through in the final third. However, their pressure has yet to produce a clear chance, with one attack ruled offside.

Ivory Coast remain organised in defence, holding just 23 per cent possession but maintaining shape and discipline. They have completed 39 passes at 82 per cent accuracy and also won the first corner of the match while looking to counter.

Both sides have managed just one shot each, with neither testing the goalkeepers so far in a cautious opening phase.

Live projections show Norway ahead with a 44 per cent win chance, compared to 26 per cent for Ivory Coast, while a 30 per cent chance of extra time highlights how balanced the contest remains early on.