Haaland fires Norway into World Cup last 16 with win over Ivory Coast

Erling Haaland scored a late winner as Norway defeated Ivory Coast 2-1 on Tuesday to book a place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup, where they will face Brazil.

The Manchester City striker tapped home from close range in the 86th minute to seal victory, taking his tournament tally to five goals and securing Norway’s first-ever knockout win at a World Cup.

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After a cagey opening, Antonio Nusa broke the deadlock six minutes before halftime with a superb curling effort into the top corner after being set up by captain Martin Ødegaard.

Ivory Coast responded strongly in the second half, with Manchester United winger Amad Diallo making an immediate impact after coming off the bench. He first cleared a goal-bound effort off the line before producing a brilliant solo run to level the score in the 74th minute.

As extra time loomed, Patrick Berg delivered a cross into the box, allowing Haaland to bundle home the decisive goal and send Norway through to the next round.

Goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland preserved the victory in stoppage time with an outstanding save from Diallo’s free-kick.

Norway will now take on five-time world champions Brazil in the Round of 16, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.