Haaland, with his 60th international goal, has sent Norway into the last eight.

On July 1, 2026, fans of Norway celebrated their team’s victory over the Ivory Coast at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, as part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The match, which ended with a 2–1 win for Norway, was marked by a combination of athletic celebration and cultural flair, with Norwegian supporters engaging in traditional rowing and dancing on the stadium grounds. This unique display of national pride reflected both the team's success and the deep-rooted traditions of its supporters. The game itself began under cautious conditions, with neither side showing much aggression early on. Both teams started with a defensive approach, keeping possession low and avoiding risky plays. The first significant moment came in the 39th minute when 21-year-old Antonio Nusa, playing for Norway, intercepted a pass and used his left foot to beat Ivory Coast’s goalkeeper Yahio Fofanaja. His goal gave Norway a narrow lead, setting the tone for the rest of the match. Despite this, the Ivory Coast remained competitive, creating several chances but failing to convert them into goals. Throughout the second half, the atmosphere grew more intense as both teams pushed forward. In the 66th minute, a powerful strike from Ivory Coast’s Nicolas Pepe was saved by Norway’s goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, who made a crucial stop to keep the scoreline unchanged. The momentum shifted further in favor of Norway when substitute Amad Diallo scored in the 75th minute, equalizing the match and sending the crowd into a frenzy. However, the turning point came in the 86th minute when Erling Haaland, the world’s most expensive footballer, found the back of the net with a well-timed finish, securing Norway’s 2–1 victory. Haaland’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing his trademark composure and clinical finishing. He added another goal in the 96th minute, though it was saved by Nyland, who continued to impress throughout the match. The win ensured Norway’s place in the Round of 16, where they will face Brazil, who had already eliminated Japan in their previous round. For the Ivory Coast, the loss means they must wait at least four years before challenging again at the World Cup level. Erling Haaland’s contribution extended beyond just scoring. With this goal, he reached 60 international goals, solidifying his position among the top scorers in World Cup history. Currently, he trails only Lionel Messi, who has six goals to his name, while Haaland remains ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. His performance underscored his importance to the Norwegian squad and highlighted his ability to deliver under pressure. The celebrations after the match were as vibrant as the game itself. Norwegian fans, known for their energetic support, took to the streets of Arlington, performing traditional rowing and dance routines that have become synonymous with their culture. Some even joined in with local residents, including a few Mexican fans, adding a touch of camaraderie to the festivities. The video capturing these moments quickly went viral, offering a glimpse into the passion and unity of the Norwegian fanbase during one of their most memorable victories. As the World Cup continues, Norway’s journey is far from over. Their upcoming clash against Brazil promises to be a high-stakes encounter, testing the team’s resilience and adaptability. Meanwhile, the Ivory Coast will need to regroup and prepare for future tournaments, hoping to return stronger than ever. The match between Norway and Ivory Coast not only showcased exceptional football but also highlighted the spirit of competition and the joy of shared celebration that defines the World Cup experience.