Ivory Coast’s historic run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a heartbreaking end on Tuesday after a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 32, making the Elephants the third African nation to exit the tournament.
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The West Africans looked set to force extra time after Amad Diallo cancelled out Norway’s first-half lead with a superb 74th-minute equaliser at Dallas Stadium.
However, Erling Haaland struck four minutes from time to send the Scandinavians into the Round of 16.
Norway took the lead in the 39th minute through Antonio Nusa, who curled a brilliant effort into the top corner after being set up by captain Martin Ødegaard.
Ivory Coast, appearing in the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time, struggled to create chances in the opening half after coach Emerse Faé opted for a more defensive approach, leaving Diallo on the bench.
The introduction of the Manchester United winger transformed the game.
Diallo beat two defenders before firing past the Norwegian goalkeeper to level the scores and give the Elephants renewed hope.
But with extra time looming, Patrick Berg’s low cut-back found Haaland inside the six-yard box, and the Manchester City striker made no mistake, bundling home his fifth goal of the tournament to secure a famous victory for Norway.
The result sends Norway into the Round of 16 for the first time in 28 years, where they will face Brazil.
Despite the painful defeat, Ivory Coast can take pride in a memorable campaign that saw them reach the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in their history.
Their elimination follows the exits of Tunisia and South Africa, making the Elephants the third African side to leave the tournament.
Africa’s hopes now rest on the remaining representatives still competing for a place in the latter stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
