Haaland strikes late to send Norway into World Cup last 16
Erling Haaland scored an 86th-minute winner to secure a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast and set up a last-16 tie against Brazil.
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Norway have reached the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in Dallas. Erling Haaland secured the win with an 86th-minute strike, converting a pass from Patrick Berg to set up a knockout clash with Brazil.
Norway took the lead in the 39th minute through a moment of individual brilliance from Antonio Nusa, who curled a superb shot into the top corner. Despite Norway's control, Ivory Coast stayed competitive and equalised in the 74th minute through substitute Amad Diallo.
The match looked destined for extra time until Haaland’s late intervention. While the striker had a relatively quiet game, his ability to appear at the decisive moment proved vital, marking the first time a player has scored in his first three World Cup appearances.
Norway will now face Brazil on July 5 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Historically, Norway remains the only team to have played Brazil internationally without ever losing, holding a record of two wins and two draws against the five-time world champions.