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Haaland Late Winner Sinks Ivory Coast in World Cup Thriller

Sky Sports Champions League •
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Erling Haaland secured a dramatic late victory for Norway, clinical finishing an 86th-minute opportunity to defeat Ivory Coast 2-1. After Antonio Nusa gave the Norwegians an early lead with a curling strike, the African side fought back through a brilliant solo effort from Amad Diallo. The result marks Norway's first knockout-stage win in tournament history.

Ivory Coast dominated much of the match in Dallas, creating numerous chances that went unrewarded. Despite a massive xG advantage and fourteen shots, they could not find a way past the Norwegian defense until Diallo's equalizer. However, the game ultimately turned on a Sander Berge cross that found Erling Haaland for the decisive tap-in.

This victory sets up a massive round-of-16 encounter against Brazil. While Ivory Coast showed immense talent, their inability to convert dominance proved fatal against a side possessing a world-class finisher. Norway now moves into a high-stakes clash where Haaland's efficiency will be tested against the South American giants. The winner of this match advances to the quarter-finals.