Norway edge Ivory Coast 2–1 as Erling Haaland fires late winner in World Cup thriller

DALLAS: The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash between Norway and the Ivory Coast began as a tightly contested tactical battle, with Norway gradually asserting control while the Ivorians stayed compact and disciplined.

Norway dominated possession early, holding 77 per cent of the ball with 70 passes at 88 per cent accuracy as they probed for openings in the final third, though their pressure initially failed to produce clear chances with one attack ruled offside.

Ivory Coast, meanwhile, remained organised and resilient in defence, managing just 23 per cent possession but keeping their shape intact, completing 39 passes at 82 per cent accuracy and even winning the first corner while looking dangerous on the counter.

Both sides registered only one shot each in a cautious opening phase, with live projections giving Norway a 44 per cent win chance compared to 26 per cent for Ivory Coast, and a 30 per cent chance of extra time reflecting the balance of play.

The deadlock eventually shifted when Antonio Nusa put Norway ahead in the first half. Ivory Coast responded after the break, with Amad Diallo striking in the 74th minute to level the score and set up a tense finish at the Dallas stadium.

Just when extra time looked likely, Erling Haaland delivered in the 88th minute, scoring a late winner to complete Norway’s comeback and seal a dramatic 2–1 victory.