Two second-place finishers collide in a knockout clash: Ivory Coast's defensive solidity meets Norway's attacking flair. Who advances?
The Stade de la Coupe du Monde is set for a pulsating Last 32 encounter as Ivory Coast take on Norway in what promises to be a tightly contested knockout tie. Both sides finished second in their respective groups with identical six-point hauls, but contrasting styles could decide who progresses to the round of 16. The Elephants, known for their resolute defence and swift counter-attacks, will face a Norwegian side brimming with creative talent and goalscoring pedigree. With everything on the line, expect a tactical battle where discipline and individual brilliance will be paramount.
Summary
Ivory Coast topped their group after a nervy final matchday, but a 2-0 win over Curaçao sealed their passage. Their only defeat came against Germany (1-2), a match where they showed resilience but were undone by moments of quality. Norway, meanwhile, recovered from a heavy 4-1 loss to France with back-to-back wins over Senegal (3-2) and Iraq (4-1), showcasing their firepower. Both teams have weaknesses—Ivory Coast can be ponderous in possession, while Norway's defence has been breached five times in three games. This sets up a fascinating contest where the first goal could be decisive.
Team News & Form
Ivory Coast manager Jean-Louis Gasset has a fully fit squad to choose from. Captain Serge Aurier remains a key figure at right-back, while the midfield trio of Franck Kessié, Seko Fofana, and Ibrahim Sangaré provides power and box-to-box energy. Up front, Sébastien Haller leads the line, supported by the pace of Nicolas Pépé and Wilfried Zaha. Recent form: W (2-0 vs Curaçao), L (1-2 vs Germany), W (1-0 vs Ecuador).
Norway boss Ståle Solbakken has no major injury concerns. Erling Haaland is the focal point, with Martin Ødegaard pulling the strings from midfield. The full-back areas remain a concern, but the centre-back pairing of Andreas Hanche-Olsen and Leo Skiri Østigård has grown in confidence. Recent form: L (1-4 vs France), W (3-2 vs Senegal), W (4-1 vs Iraq).
Key Players
Franck Kessié (Ivory Coast): The Al-Ahli midfielder is the engine room. His ability to break up play and drive forward will be crucial against Norway's possession game. Kessié's set-piece threat also adds another dimension.
Erling Haaland (Norway): The Manchester City striker needs no introduction. With four goals in three group games, his movement and finishing are world-class. Ivory Coast's centre-backs will have to be at their best to contain him.
Predicted Lineups
Ivory Coast: Y. Fofana; Aurier, Ndicka, Boly, Konan; Kessié, I. Sangaré, S. Fofana; Pépé, Haller, Zaha.
Norway: Nyland; Ryerson, Hanche-Olsen, Østigård, Meling; Berge, Thorsby; Sørloth, Ødegaard, Elyounoussi; Haaland.
Key Battles
Midfield control: Kessié vs Ødegaard. The Ivory Coast midfielder will look to disrupt Ødegaard's rhythm, while the Arsenal playmaker will try to find pockets of space. Whichever team wins this duel likely dictates the tempo.
Aerial duels: Haller vs Østigård. Both are strong in the air; set-pieces could be a decisive factor.
Head-to-Head
This is the first competitive meeting between Ivory Coast and Norway. In friendlies, they have met twice: a 1-1 draw in 2006 and a 2-1 win for Norway in 2013. Little historical data to draw upon, making this a true unknown.
Score Prediction
Given the defensive solidity of Ivory Coast and Norway's occasional lapses at the back, a tight affair is expected. The Elephants' experience in knockout football could prove decisive. Prediction: Ivory Coast 2-1 Norway (after extra time).
Where to Watch
Live coverage on ITV (UK), Fox Sports (USA), and beIN Sports (MENA). Kick-off is at 17:00 UTC. For full fixtures and standings, visit our dedicated pages. Follow Ivory Coast and Norway team pages for updates.
