Erling Haaland Struck Late to Send Norway into the World Cup Last 16.

• Erling Haaland struck late to send Norway into the World Cup last 16 with a dramatic victory over Ivory Coast and set up a blockbuster meeting with Brazil.

The Manchester City forward had been largely kept under control throughout much of the contest in Dallas, but he appeared at the decisive moment in the 86th minute to score the winner from close range after Patrick Berg’s cutback found him inside the box.

The goal extended Haaland’s remarkable run of scoring in 13 consecutive competitive matches for Norway and secured his country’s first-ever victory in a World Cup knockout game.

Before Haaland’s late intervention, the match had produced moments of brilliance from both sides. Norway took the lead in the 39th minute through Antonio Nusa, who displayed outstanding technique by driving in from the left and curling a superb effort into the top corner.

Ivory Coast struggled to create opportunities in the opening stages as coach Emerse Fae opted for a cautious approach. However, the introduction of Amad Diallo in the second half transformed their attack.

Diallo rewarded his manager’s decision by producing an excellent equaliser in the 74th minute. Cutting in from the right side, he beat defenders before calmly finishing for his second goal of the tournament.

The Manchester United winger had already made a crucial contribution moments earlier when he prevented Norway from doubling their advantage, clearing Torbjorn Heggem’s effort off the goal line.

As the game entered its closing stages, Ivory Coast looked capable of forcing extra time. Diallo almost delivered once again with a powerful free kick from distance, but Norway goalkeeper Orlan Nyland reacted brilliantly to preserve the score.

Norway captain Martin Odegaard also played an important role, providing the assist for Nusa’s opener and continuing his impressive tournament form.

But the final word belonged to Haaland. When Norway needed their biggest star, he delivered once again, ensuring their place in the next round.

Norway will now prepare for a highly anticipated last-16 clash against Brazil, with a quarter-final place at stake.