Norway advances to World Cup knockout stage after beating Ivory Coast, Haaland scores winner

Norway secured a spot in the World Cup round of 16 by defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 in a closely contested match. The decisive goal came late in the game, capping off a fluid attack initiated from the right flank and finished by star striker Erling Haaland, assisted by Patrick Berg.

In Dallas, Texas, the two teams were evenly matched for much of the game, with Norway showing more attacking intent. Before halftime, Norway's Antonia Nusa opened the scoring with a skillful shot into the far top corner, leaving Ivory Coast's goalkeeper Yahia Fofana with no chance. A subsequent opportunity for Haaland was thwarted by defender Ibrahim Sangaré.

In the second half, Norway nearly doubled their lead when Torbjørn Heggem's corner kick was cleared off the line by substitute Amad Diallo. However, Diallo soon equalized for Ivory Coast after a quick one-two passing sequence and a skillful dribble through the Norwegian defense.

Match-winner Haaland scored his fifth goal of the tournament, keeping pace with Lionel Messi. Deep into injury time, Diallo's free-kick created a tense moment for Norway, but goalkeeper Orjan Nyland made a crucial save. Norway, appearing in the World Cup's last 16 for the second time, is set to play Brazil next.