Norway secured a 2-1 victory over the Ivory Coast in the 2026 World Cup, marking the nation’s first-ever win in a knockout match at a World Cup. Antonio Nusa opened the scoring in the 39th minute, and Erling Haaland netted the decisive goal in the 86th minute.
## A Historic Milestone for Norway
Norway’s path represents a significant shift in the country’s footballing history. This victory stands as the first time the nation has won a knockout match in a World Cup. The only previous goal scored by Norway in a knockout round occurred on June 5, 1938, a drought that lasted over 88 years until Antonio Nusa found the net.
Nusa, currently playing for RB Leipzig, broke the deadlock with a curling effort from the left side that found the top corner. The goal served as the catalyst for a match that had previously been defined by defensive rigidity and limited opportunities for both sides.
## Match Dynamics and Tactical Shifts
The match was characterized by intense pressure and disciplined defending. Erling Haaland, often the focal point of the Norwegian attack, found himself largely contained by the Ivorian defense for much of the first half, managing only two header attempts in the 3rd and 37th minutes.
The Ivory Coast struggled to convert their own chances, with efforts from Ghislain Konan and Nicolas Pépé failing to challenge goalkeeper Örjan Nyland. The game opened up in the second half, particularly after Amad Diallo cleared a dangerous shot from Torbjörn Heggem off the line in the 67th minute. Diallo subsequently equalized for the Ivory Coast in the 74th minute, capping a swift counter-attacking sequence that momentarily shifted the momentum in favor of the Ivorian team.
## Controversial Officiating and the Decisive Moment
A critical turning point occurred in the 78th minute when the Ivory Coast appealed for a penalty after Andreas Schjelderup challenged Nicolas Pépé. Referee Jesus Valenzuela opted not to award a spot-kick, and the decision was not overturned by the video assistant referee. Sportschau refereeing expert Lutz Wagner noted: “Der Kontakt war nicht unerheblich, es hat schon für ganz andere Dinge Elfmeter gegeben. Da hat Norwegen Glück gehabt.”
The failure to secure the penalty proved costly for the Ivory Coast. In the 86th minute, a precise Norwegian build-up found Patrick Berg, who set up Erling Haaland for a finish from five meters. This goal, Haaland’s 60th in 53 international appearances, proved to be the match-winner.
## Looking Ahead
With this result, Norway advances. The team is scheduled to face Brazil on Sunday at 22:00 CEST. The victory marks a significant turning point for the squad, as they have now won a knockout match at a World Cup for the first time.
Worth a look