2026 FIFA WC: Haaland's winner helps Norway seal Round of 16 spot for the first time
Dallas, July 1
Erling Haaland scored in the 86th minute to seal a 2-1 victory for Norway against Côte d'Ivoire at the Dallas Stadium in Dallas as the Vikings sailed into the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history.
Norway were pushed all the way by an excellent Côte d'Ivoire side that created some good chances in the second half of the match, but the Scandinavians held their nerve and emerged deserved winners.
Antonio Nusa had put Norway ahead with a superb curling effort, before Amad Diallo equalised with what would be considered an even better goal to fire his team level.
Haaland had the last word in the 86th minute, scoring his fifth goal of the 2026 World Cup as he helped Norway advance to the next stage, keeping alive their hopes in the mega event, setting up a meeting with five-time champions Brazil in the Round of 16.
The match looked destined for extra time as substitute Diallo pulled Côte d'Ivoire level in the 74th minute with a sensational goal. Amad played a give-and-go with Pepe, then darted into the box with the ball, jinked inside to leave two Norway defenders in his wake, and fired a shot past Nyland into the goal, making it 1-1.
The Ivorians enjoyed a strong start in the second half, with several good attempts at goal, but nothing looked like beating Nyland in the Norway net. They increased the pressure, but with it came the risk of being left exposed on the counter by Haaland and Co.
Haaland did not disappoint his fans as he slotted home the winner, giving the finishing touch to a fine team effort from Norway. The ball is threaded through to Patrick Berg, who made a fine run forward and sent a square pass across for Haaland, who is perfectly placed to make it 2-1 for Norway.
Diallo nearly pulled Côte d'Ivoire level again, but a brilliant save by the goalkeeper saved Norway. Diallo had a go with a free-kick from 25 yards, and it was heading for the top corner before Nyland sprang up and stretched to the maximum and made a fabulous fingertip stop.
The score remained that way at the final whistle, triggering frenzied celebrations among the Norwegian players and supporters, and they now gear up for a clash with Brazil in the next round.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an Indian football fan, it's bittersweet watching smaller European nations succeed while we struggle to qualify. But Norway deserved this - Haaland and Nusa were brilliant! Diallo's goal was something special too, what a strike ⚽
Norway showing European grit! That Diallo goal was world-class though. As someone who follows ISL closely, I can appreciate the defensive organisation Norway showed. Our Indian defenders could learn a thing or two from that backline. Bring on Brazil!
Honestly, Côte d'Ivoire were unlucky. That free-kick save was incredible. Reminds me of India vs Lebanon in SAFF Championship last year - fine margins decide matches. Haaland is just unstoppable though. Nyland's save of the tournament contender! 🙌
Norway vs Brazil - David vs Goliath for the Round of 16! All India will be supporting Norway now 🇮🇳❤️ Haaland might be the difference-maker. But Brazil's flair against Norway's discipline will be an epic tactical battle. Let's hope for more football magic!
Kya match tha bhai! That Nusa goal was beautiful 😍 But honestly, I wish India could experience even a fraction of this World Cup excitement. Our chaps in blue have a long way to go. Nevertheless, wonderful achievement by Norway - first time in Round of 16!
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