World Cup: Norway set to face Brazil after Nusa and Haaland defeat Côte d'Ivoire

Norway are through to the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup after their narrow win over Côte d'Ivoire.

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Norway became the first European team to qualify for the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup. Ståle Solbakken's side knocked out Côte d'Ivoire after yet another hard-fought encounter in the Round of 32.

RB Leipzig duo Yan Diomande and Antonio Nusa were decisive in the first clear-cut chances by the two teams. Nicolas Pepe was unable to convert Diomande’s superb delivery moments before Nusa opened the scoring with a stunning curler.

The Elephants found an equalizer fifteen minutes before time through Manchester United’s Amad, but the grueling tie was decided by another guy currently playing his football in Manchester. Former Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland converted from close range to secure Norway's first-ever knockout victory with his fifth of the competition.

Eintracht Frankfurt's Elye Wahi and Hoffenheim’s Bazoumana Toure played their last game of the tournament as substitutes. Norway will face five-time winners Brazil in the next round.