World Cup 2026: Haaland scores to send Norway into Round 16 after 2-1 win over Ivory Coast

Erling Haaland scored his fifth goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to guide Norway into the Round of 16 after a tense 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast at AT&T Stadium on Tuesday.

The Manchester City striker completed the full 90 minutes and once again proved decisive in a tightly contested knockout clash, striking late to seal qualification for the Norwegians.

Nusa Produces Moment of Magic to Open Scoring

Ivory Coast started brightly and almost capitalised early on when Nicolas Pépé found space inside the penalty area, but his effort was brilliantly blocked by the Norwegian defence.

Norway eventually broke the deadlock in the 39th minute through Antonio Nusa, who produced a dazzling solo run before curling a superb effort into the top right corner from the edge of the box. Ivory Coast goalkeeper Yahia Fofana was left with no chance.

Moments later, Haaland came agonisingly close to doubling the lead when he reacted quickest to a rebound inside the box, only for a last-ditch goal-line clearance to deny him.

Ivory Coast Respond After the Break

The second half saw Ivory Coast push back strongly in search of an equaliser.

Nicolas Pépé was again involved, forcing a sharp save from Ørjan Nyland after pouncing on a rebound inside the area. Emmanuel Agbadou also came close just before half-time, heading narrowly wide from a free-kick delivery.

Their persistence eventually paid off in the 74th minute when Amad Diallo produced a brilliant individual goal, finishing emphatically from inside the box to bring the match level at 1-1.

Haaland Steps Up With Decisive Finish

With extra time looming, Norway found their match-winner in Erling Haaland.

In the 86th minute, the striker latched onto a perfectly timed pass inside the penalty area before calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper to restore Norway’s lead.

The finish secured his fifth goal of the tournament and ensured Norway progressed to the knockout stages.

Norway Set Up Brazil Clash

The victory sends Norway into a blockbuster Round of 16 showdown with Brazil, scheduled for Sunday, July 5 at 20:00 GMT.

With Haaland in lethal form, Norway will now prepare for one of their biggest tests of the tournament against the South American giants.