Haaland's 86th-minute goal sends Norway past Ivory Coast 2-1 in Dallas, securing a historic last-16 spot against Brazil
Erling Haaland's late strike, his fifth of the World Cup, gave Norway a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast and a first-ever place in the tournament's knockout stages, where Brazil awaits.
Norway reached the World Cup last 16 for the first time after Erling Haaland's 86th-minute goal decided a tense encounter in Dallas. The Manchester City striker, quiet for much of the game, pounced on a Patrick Berg cross with a scuffed finish that sealed a 2-1 victory and set up a meeting with Brazil.
Nusa's opener
Ivory Coast had started brightly, with Yan Diomandé and Nicolas Pépé causing problems down the flanks. Against the run of play, Antonio Nusa broke the deadlock in the 39th minute. The 21-year-old RB Leipzig winger cut inside from the left and curled a right-foot shot into the top corner, scoring his first goal of the tournament.
Diallo responds
The Ivorians pressed after the break and were rewarded in the 75th minute. Substitute Amad Diallo dribbled past a defender and drilled a left-footed finish past goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, equalising for the Elephants and raising hopes of a first knockout win.
Haaland's intervention
Just as the match seemed headed for extra time, Haaland intervened. Berg floated a ball into the area from Bobb's pass, and the 23-year-old striker nudged it home at the near post. The goal was his 12th in his last 12 international appearances and his 60th in 53 caps for Norway. It also extended his tally to five for the tournament.
Norwegian history
Norway, competing in its first World Cup since 1998, had never previously won a knockout match at the finals. Ståle Solbakken's side will face Brazil on Sunday, July 5, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
