Haaland's late goal sends Norway to face Brazil in World Cup Round of 16

Erling Haaland's decisive 86th-minute goal secured Norway's 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast, propelling them into the World Cup 2026 Round of 16. The win sets up a highly anticipated clash with Brazil at Metlife Stadium.

Haaland, who had a quiet game until his late intervention, demonstrated his predatory instinct, converting a pass from Patrick Berg into the winning goal. His fifth goal of the tournament proved to be the difference in a match that struggled to ignite.

Both Ivory Coast and Norway delivered a disjointed performance, marked by more errors than successful plays. Despite Ivory Coast's clearer attacking intentions, driven by the physical play of Franck Kessié and the speed of Yan Diomandé on the left flank, they lacked a clinical finish. They created several chances and had numerous corner kicks but failed to capitalize.

Norway found its breakthrough before halftime through the skillful Antonio Nusa. In the 39th minute, Nusa weaved past defenders on the edge of the area and scored with a curling shot, giving his team a 1-0 lead. Ivory Coast equalized in the second half with a goal from Amad Diallo in the 75th minute, after Nicolas Pépé's earlier effort was saved.

However, Haaland's late intervention ultimately settled the contest, ensuring Norway's progression and sending a warning to their next opponents, Brazil.