Norway hold off Côte d'Ivoire fightback to book last-16 place
Côte d’Ivoire fought back to level but Erling Haaland’s late finish sealed a 2-1 win in the Round of 32.
Norway edged past Côte d'Ivoire 2-1 in a tense Fifa World Cup Round of 32 encounter at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Tuesday (30 June), with Erling Haaland striking late to secure victory after a dramatic second half.
Antonio Nusa put Norway ahead in the 39th minute with a brilliant solo effort from the edge of the box, curling a superb finish into the top corner after weaving past defenders.
Côte d'Ivoire responded after the break and levelled the match in the 74th minute when Amad Diallo produced a fine individual run before firing past goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland.
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The momentum swung both ways in a lively contest, with Côte d'Ivoire creating several chances through Nicolas Pépé and Franck Kessié, while Norway also threatened through Haaland and Alexander Sørloth.
However, Norway restored their lead in the 86th minute when Haaland latched onto a precise pass inside the box and calmly slotted home, sealing his side's passage to the Round of 16.
Côte d'Ivoire pushed for another equaliser deep into stoppage time, earning late corners, but Norway held firm to close out the match.
Norway will now advance to the last 16 after a hard-fought win in a match defined by moments of individual brilliance on both sides.
