Germany’s Bundesliga top scorer Erling Haaland scored a decisive goal in the 89th minute as Norway advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with a 2-1 victory over the Ivory Coast, according to multiple sports outlets.
Haaland’s 89th-Minute Decider
The match, played at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, saw Haaland convert a last-minute penalty after a controversial offside call was overturned by VAR, according to Goal.com and BBC Sport. The goal came after Norway had trailed 1-0 to an early penalty from Nicolas Pépé, with the Ivory Coast holding the lead for 82 minutes.
VAR’s Controversial Role
Referee Cuneyt Cakir’s initial offside decision on the play was reversed by VAR, allowing Haaland to score. The sequence sparked immediate debate, with The Daily Mail describing it as “a bizarre sequence.” Norway’s captain, Martin Ødegaard, echoed that sentiment, telling The Telegraph: “It was a bizarre sequence. But we kept believing, and Erling gave us the chance to win at the end.”
Rangnick’s Tactical Triumph
Coach Ralf Rangnick called the result “a testament to our preparation and resilience,” per Sport1. Norway secured Group C outright, finishing ahead of the Ivory Coast and Australia. The win sets up a Round of 32 clash for the Ivorians against Australia, as reported by Fox Sports.
Ødegaard’s Faith in Haaland
Ødegaard’s confidence in Haaland proved prescient. The striker, who entered as a substitute in the 77th minute, netted his 12th goal of the tournament. His tally now ranks him as the competition’s top scorer, despite a sluggish group-stage performance.
Haaland’s 12th Goal of the Tournament
Haaland’s 89th-minute strike capped a dramatic finish. The goal not only secured Norway’s progression but also underscored his reputation as a clutch performer. The 26-year-old, who has scored 12 goals in six matches, remains a central figure in Norway’s World Cup campaign.
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