Haaland Sends Norway to Round of 16 Against Brazil
Norway beat Ivory Coast 2-1 with a late goal from Erling Haaland, setting up a round of 16 clash with five-time champions Brazil at the World Cup.
Norway's men's football team secured their spot in the World Cup round of 16 on Tuesday, defeating Ivory Coast 2-1. Erling Haaland scored the winner in the 86th minute.
Antonio Nusa opened the scoring in the 39th minute, firing into the corner of the net from inside the box. In the second half, Norwegian goalkeeper Ørjan Håskjold Nyland saved a dangerous shot from Nicolas Pépé, and later Turbjørn Hegge's effort was cleared off the line by Ivory Coast defenders.
Amad Diallo equalized in the 74th minute with a brilliant individual run and finish. However, 12 minutes later, Patrick Berg's cross from the right found Haaland, who slotted home from close range. In stoppage time, Diallo had another chance from a free kick, but Nyland tipped the ball over the bar.
Norway will now face Brazil in the round of 16. Brazil had earlier beaten Japan 2-1. This is the first World Cup with 48 teams, hosted across Mexico, the USA, and Canada. The semi-finals are scheduled for July 14 and 15, with the final on July 19.
