Haaland sends Norway into Brazil last-16 clash with late winner over Ivory Coast

TEXAS: Erling Haaland struck late to give Norway a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast on Tuesday and book a World Cup last-16 meeting with Brazil in New Jersey on Sunday.

The Manchester City forward scored from close range in the 86th minute, with the ball trickling over the line for his fifth goal of the tournament. The result also gave Norway their first victory in a knockout match in the history of the competition.

After a cautious opening spell at the air-conditioned home of the Dallas Cowboys, Ivory Coast threatened first when defender Ghislain Konan broke into the box from the left after 20 minutes but hit the side netting. The Ivorians were then angered shortly before the drinks break when Yan Diomande was brought down on the counter just inside his own half. The 19-year-old winger continued to grow into the contest and posed a particular danger down the left.

Haaland had little service in the first half and sent a tame header straight at goalkeeper Yahia Fofana. Norway, however, went ahead six minutes before the interval through Antonio Nusa, who produced a superb finish after being picked out by captain Martin Odegaard. The 21-year-old cut inside and curled the ball into the top corner, prompting Odegaard to put his hands on his head in disbelief.

Stale Solbakken's side ended the half pushing for another goal, and Haaland was denied by a vital last-ditch block from Ibrahim Sangare. Ivory Coast, appearing in the knockout rounds for the first time, resumed strongly and won their 10th corner at the start of the second half.

Manchester United's Amad Diallo was introduced after an hour and quickly became central to the game. Norway came close to doubling their lead from a corner, only for Diallo to block the ball on the line. Norwegian supporters, sensing progress to the next round, began their trademark rowing celebration in the stands.

Diallo then brought Ivory Coast level in the 74th minute, weaving into the penalty area past two challenges before scoring a fine equaliser. But with extra time approaching, Patrick Berg delivered a cross that Haaland met from close range to restore Norway's lead and make national team history.

Ivory Coast nearly forced the match further when Diallo won a free kick late on, but Norway goalkeeper Nyland made a flying save from the well-struck effort to secure his side's place in the last 16.

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