World Cup 2026: Norway reaches Round of 16

Norway has reached the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time in 28 years, securing a thrilling 2-1 victory against Ivory Coast. The win propels the Scandinavian nation into the Round of 16, where they will face a formidable opponent in record champions Brazil.

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A dream goal from Bundesliga professional Antonio Nusa and a late strike from top striker Erling Haaland have brought Norway into the first World Cup Round of 16 in 28 years.

The match saw a moment of brilliance from RB Leipzig's Antonio Nusa, who opened the scoring for Norway in the 39th minute with a curling shot into the top corner. However, Ivory Coast fought back, with Amad Diallo netting an equalizer in the 74th minute, setting up a tense finish.

Just as the game seemed headed for a draw, star striker Erling Haaland found the back of the net in the 86th minute, scoring the decisive goal from close range to clinch the victory for Norway. This late strike ensured their progression in the tournament.

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RB Leipzig's offensive player Antonio Nusa scored the 1-0 lead for Norway in the Dallas Stadium with a shot into the corner (39th minute).

For Ivory Coast, the loss marks the end of their World Cup campaign. They were eliminated in their first knockout match. Meanwhile, Norway's reward for their dramatic win is a challenging encounter against Brazil, who advanced after defeating Japan 2-1.

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After the equalizer by Amad Diallo (74th), the previously inconspicuous Haaland pushed the ball into the goal from close range for the celebrated victory (86th).