Norway's late surge forces Brazil clash in World Cup last‑16

Erling Haaland tapped home a dramatic late winner in the 86th minute as Norway beat Ivory Coast 2‑1 in Dallas, securing a place in the World Cup last‑16 where they will face Brazil. The decisive goal came from six yards after Patrick Berg's cut‑back, confirming Norway's knockout triumph.

Antonio Nusa opened the scoring in the 39th minute, curling a right‑footed shot from the left into the top corner after cutting into the box. The 21‑year‑old RB Leipzig winger's strike gave Norway the lead and forced Ivory Coast to chase the game.

Amad Diallo, who had been left out in the starting XI, entered at halftime and delivered a superb 74th‑minute strike, narrowing the deficit. Manager Emerse Fae had deployed a defensive 4‑1‑4‑1 formation, but the change proved insufficient to hold back Norway's attack.

Norway centre‑back Torbjorn Heggem saw a four‑yard volley cleared off the line by Amad Diallo, highlighting a missed chance for the Scandinavians. Later, Norway goalkeeper Orlan Nyland had to palm away a 25‑yard free‑kick from Diallo that threatened to level the match.

Martin Odegaard provided the assist for Nusa's opener, becoming only the third player to record an assist in each of his first three World Cup appearances. Haaland's goal extended his streak to 13 successive competitive internationals for Norway.

Ivory Coast teenager Yan Diomande was muscled out after a body check from David Moller Wolfe in the first half, limiting the Ivorian attack. Diallo's impact continued as he nearly equalised in the final moments with a free‑kick that Nyland saved.

Norway now progress to the last‑16 where they will meet Brazil, who secured a comeback win over Japan on Monday. The clash is scheduled for 21.00 BST on Sunday, 5 July, with the victor potentially facing England in the quarter‑finals.