FIFA has sent a message to Norway following their historic qualification for the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The world football governing body hailed the Vikings after they defeated Ivory Coast 2-1 in their Round of 32 clash at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday, June 30.
Norway's Historic Victory
Norway took the lead in the 39th minute through Leipzig winger Antonio Nusa, who finished off a swift attacking move after the Elephants had enjoyed a bright spell in the opening half. Ivory Coast responded strongly after the break and were rewarded in the 74th minute when Manchester United winger Amad Diallo calmly slotted home the equaliser, becoming the first Ivorian player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match.
The African champions looked capable of forcing extra time, but Norway's star striker, Erling Haaland, had the final say. The Manchester City forward struck the winner in the 86th minute, tapping in an assist from Patrick Berg from close range to send the Vikings into the last 16, according to Sofa Scores.
FIFA's Tribute
In a tweet on X, FIFA wrote: "Another day and more history made! Norway have won their first-ever @FIFAWorldCup knockout game, progressing to the Round of 16."
Norway reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in decades, while Ivory Coast's impressive campaign came to an end after they had reached the knockout rounds for the first time in the nation's history.
Fan Reactions
Fans reacted to FIFA celebrating Erling Haaland and the Norwegian team. @_NMM_KO said: "When the players celebrate like this with that much happiness… you just know the fans at home are losing their minds ?? What a moment." @Karan2214s wrote: "Haaland has been amazing and what he is doing should be appreciated more. Greatness." @Somewheregoood added: "History made. A day Norwegian football will never forget." @RincolFi said: "Individual brilliance and team efforts go hand in hand in this World Cup edition. Haaland and the Norwegian team are rolling stones that Brazil has to be concerned about. They have a better record against them too."
Next Match: Norway vs Brazil
Norway will face Brazil in the round of 16 on Sunday, July 5, as they continue their bid for a first-ever FIFA World Cup title, per ESPN.
Supercomputer Prediction
Legit.ng earlier reported that Opta’s supercomputer predicted the result of the Round of 32 clash between Ivory Coast and Norway. The supercomputer ran 25,000 pre-game simulations, giving Norway a 56.1% chance of winning in 90 minutes, Ivory Coast a 21.6% chance, and a draw at 22.3%.
