Norway advances to last 16
Norway secured a place in the last 16 of the World Cup 2026 after a dramatic victory over Côte d’Ivoire. The match saw Erling Haaland score a late winner, ensuring Norway’s progression. This result vindicated coach Ståle Solbakken‘s decision to rest key players in their previous group game against France, a move that had drawn criticism.
The game was closely contested. Norway initially took the lead in the first half through Antonio Nusa. However, Amad Diallo of Côte d’Ivoire, coming on as a substitute, made a significant impact by clearing a Torbjørn Heggem volley and then scoring a stunning equaliser. Despite this, Haaland’s goal with four minutes remaining sealed the win for Norway.
Both teams were in unfamiliar territory, as neither had previously won a knockout game at a World Cup. Côte d’Ivoire had consistently failed to advance past the group stage despite winning a game in every tournament they had participated in. Norway’s previous knockout appearances were in 1938 and 1998, both resulting in losses to Italy.
Match highlights and key performances
Solbakken’s strategic changes aimed to break Norway’s past knockout stage struggles. Patrick Berg, a midfielder from Bodø/Glimt, was the only player to start Norway’s two most recent matches and was instrumental in setting up Haaland’s winning goal. The team displayed a strong sense of unity, evident in their post-match celebrations led by captain Martin Ødegaard.
Norway adopted a less characteristic defensive approach for this match, a departure from their usual free-scoring style. This tactic proved effective against Côte d’Ivoire, though it remains to be seen how it will fare against stronger opposition like Brazil in the next round.
Côte d’Ivoire, despite dominating possession, struggled with precision in front of goal, a recurring issue since their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations victory. Their threat often came from the flanks, with Nicolas Pépé, now playing for Villarreal, showing directness. Pépé had a notable opportunity in the first half from a Yan Diomande cross, but his volley went wide.
The opening goal for Norway came six minutes before half-time when Ødegaard set up Nusa, who then produced a precise finish past Yahia Fofana. Diallo’s entry into the game revitalized Côte d’Ivoire, as he skillfully navigated past several Norwegian defenders to score the equalizer with 16 minutes remaining. However, Berg and Haaland ultimately secured the victory for Norway, with goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland also making a crucial save from a Diallo free-kick in injury time.
Looking ahead
The victory means Norway will face Brazil in the last 16 at New York New Jersey Stadium. This upcoming match will be a significant test for Norway’s resolve and their adapted playing style.
Meanwhile, in another World Cup 2026 last-32 fixture, France is set to play Sweden. France, considered favourites, had comfortably defeated Senegal, Iraq, and Norway in their group stage matches. Key defender William Saliba, who was rested against Norway due to a back issue, is expected to return for the match against Sweden.
The winner of the France versus Sweden match will advance to face Paraguay in Philadelphia, after Paraguay eliminated Germany on penalties in an earlier upset.
Read Also
Source: theguardian.com
You may also like
Charlie Bradshaw is the Senior Football Correspondent at News-GB, covering the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side with ten years of reporting experience. He covered Merseyside football before going national. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Liverpool John Moores University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Liverpool, he watches non-league sides and collects old match programmes. “The back page is only ever half the story.”