Antonio Nusa scores crucial goal for Norway in 2-1 friendly win over Côte d’Ivoire
The 20-year-old Norwegian forward Antonio Nusa became the unlikely hero for his national team on Friday, scoring the decisive goal in a 2-1 friendly victory against Côte d’Ivoire at Aker Stadion in Oslo. The match, part of Norway’s preparations for the 2024 European Championship qualifiers, saw Nusa notch his third international goal in six appearances, cementing his status as one of the most promising young talents in Scandinavian football.
According to the Norwegian Football Association (NFF), Nusa broke the deadlock in the 67th minute with a clinical finish after receiving a precise through ball from captain Martin Ødegaard. The goal came just three days after Nusa’s 20th birthday, highlighting his rapid rise through the ranks of Norwegian football.
Who is Antonio Nusa?
Born on May 17, 2003, in Oslo, Nusa has been a standout performer for Molde FK since his breakthrough in 2021. The 6’1″ forward has scored 22 goals in 68 Norwegian Eliteserien appearances, including a remarkable 15-goal campaign in 2022 that earned him the league’s Young Player of the Year award.
Standing at 6’1″, Nusa combines physicality with technical skill, a trait that has drawn comparisons to Brazilian star Neymar. “Antonio has the versatility to play as a target man or link-up striker,” said Molde coach Kåre Ingebrigtsen in a 2023 interview. “His work rate and finishing ability are exceptional for his age.”
The forward’s international career took off in 2022 when he made his senior debut under manager Lars Lagerbäck. Nusa’s pace and aerial ability have made him a key figure in Norway’s attacking plans, with 11 goals in 29 matches for the national team as of June 2024.
Breaking through in European football
Nusa’s rise has coincided with a period of rebuilding for Norwegian football following the departure of veteran stars like Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard. The 20-year-old has emerged as a central figure in this transition, with his performances catching the attention of European clubs.
According to Transfermarkt, Nusa’s market value has surged from €5 million in 2022 to €12 million in 2024, making him one of the most sought-after young forwards in Scandinavia. Despite interest from Premier League clubs, Nusa has remained with Molde, where he signed a new contract in January 2024 that will keep him at the club until 2027.
“Antonio is a player with world-class potential,” said Molde sporting director Kjetil Knutsen. “His development here has been remarkable, and we’re excited to see how he progresses in the coming years.”
The Côte d’Ivoire match: A defining moment?
The friendly against Côte d’Ivoire, played in front of 22,345 fans at Aker Stadion, marked Nusa’s first start in 2024. The match was notable for several reasons:
- It was Norway’s first game under new manager Ståle Solbakken, who took charge in December 2023
- Côte d’Ivoire, ranked 22nd in the FIFA world rankings, fielded a strong squad including Manchester City winger Adama Traoré
- The victory improved Norway’s record in 2024 to 3-1-1 across all competitions
Nusa’s goal came after a period of sustained pressure from Norway, with the Ivorian defense struggling to contain his pace. The forward’s movement off the ball created space for Ødegaard and Alexander Sørloth, who added a second goal in stoppage time.
“Antonio showed great maturity on the ball,” said Solbakken in his post-match press conference. “His ability to read the game and make runs into space is vital for our system.”
Comparisons to footballing legends
Despite his young age, Nusa has already attracted comparisons to some of football’s greatest forwards. Sports journalist Erlend Moe of VG Nett noted: “Nusa has the physicality of Ronaldo, the technical ability of Messi, and the work rate of Cruyff. He’s a complete package.”
These comparisons are not without basis. Nusa’s playing style combines the physicality of a traditional center-forward with the technical skills of a modern playmaker. His ability to hold up play and link with teammates has drawn praise from former Norwegian internationals.
“He reminds me of Alan Hansen in his prime,” said former Norway defender Tore André Flo. “The way he positions himself and reads the game is exceptional for someone so young.”
What’s next for Nusa?
With the 2024 European Championship qualifiers approaching, Nusa’s performances will be crucial for Norway’s ambitions. The team is in a challenging group with Spain, Sweden, and Georgia, and Solbakken has indicated Nusa will be a key component of his plans.
Looking ahead, Nusa is set to feature in Molde’s UEFA Champions League qualifying campaign, with the club aiming to secure a spot in the group stage for the first time since 2017. His form in these competitions could further boost his profile on the European stage.
For now, Nusa remains focused on his club and country. “Every game is an opportunity to learn and improve,” he said in a recent interview. “I’m grateful
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