Erling Haaland's late winner sent Norway into the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast at Dallas Stadium.
Norwegian star Erling Haaland scored a late winner in the 86th minute in Arlington, Texas, ending Ivory Coast’s chances of a comeback after Amad Diallo had equalized following Antonio Nusa’s opening goal for Norway.
Norway, which had lost both of its previous opening knockout matches in 1938 and 1998, will now play Brazil in the Round of 16 on Sunday, with a spot in the quarterfinals at stake.
Another day and more history made! 👏
Norway have won their first-ever @FIFAWorldCup knockout game, progressing to the Round of 16. 🇳🇴 pic.twitter.com/M5PiqxXYFT— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 30, 2026
Manchester City striker Haaland will go into that match full of confidence after scoring his fifth goal of the tournament, just one behind top scorer Lionel Messi, who has six.
Ivory Coast’s Diallo nearly scored a last-minute equalizer, but his curling free kick aimed at the top corner was saved by Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland.
The win vindicated Norway coach Stale Solbakken, who had been heavily criticized for resting Haaland and playing a second-string team in their final group match, a 4-1 loss to France last week.
Later Tuesday, France will try to secure its place in the Round of 16 when it faces Sweden in New Jersey, while host Mexico aims to continue its campaign in front of a passionate crowd at Estadio Azteca against Ecuador.
Sweden will need to stop France’s strong attack, which includes Kylian Mbappé, who has scored four goals in the tournament, and Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, who scored a hat trick against Norway in the group stage.
