Norway with Haaland and Odegaard to face Ivory Coast in World Cup
Erling Haaland returns to the Norway starting XI for their World Cup knockout match against Ivory Coast today in Arlington.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Bryan Berlin
In what marks the first-ever knockout stage appearance for Ivory Coast at a World Cup, manager Emerse Fae has opted for a more defensive 4-3-3 setup for today's match in Arlington compared to the game against Curacao (2-0). With Wilfried Singo ruled out, Guela Doue takes over at right-back. The lineup also features the return of Nicolas Pepe on the right wing, while Yan Diomande—who has been linked with a move to PSG—is set to operate on the left flank.
Norway manager Stale Solbakken has completely overhauled his side following their 1-4 defeat to France last Friday. Aside from Patrick Berg in midfield, the team has been heavily rotated to include star power. Erling Haaland leads the attack alongside Antonio Nusa and Alexander Sorloth, with Martin Odegaard and Sander Berge providing support in midfield. In defense, Marcus Pedersen replaces the injured Julian Ryerson, and Orjan Nyland returns to goal.