Arlington: Erling Haaland came to Norway’s rescue with a late winner as the European side booked their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup on Tuesday. France and Mexico also advanced to the pre-quarter-finals with convincing victories over Sweden and Ecuador respectively.
Norway and Ivory Coast were locked at 1-1 until the 86th minute. Patrick Berg burst through three Ivory Coast defenders before delivering a perfect pass to Haaland inside the penalty area. The Norwegian striker made no mistake, calmly slotting the ball into the net for his fifth goal of the tournament.
Earlier, Nusa had given Norway a 1-0 lead in the 39th minute before Diallo equalised for Ivory Coast in the 74th minute. Just when Ivory Coast looked capable of forcing extra time, Haaland struck in the 86th minute to seal a memorable 2-1 victory for Norway.
Despite the defeat, Ivory Coast dominated most of the statistics. They enjoyed 52 per cent possession compared to Norway’s 48 per cent, attempted 14 shots against Norway’s nine and had five shots on target compared to Norway’s three. However, Norway made the most of their chances to progress.
Mbappe Draws Level with Messi
France defeated Sweden 3-0 on Wednesday morning. Kylian Mbappe scored twice, finding the net in the 45th and 74th minutes, while Barcola added the third goal.
Mbappe has now scored six goals in the ongoing World Cup, drawing level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi as the tournament’s joint-highest scorer.
France dominated throughout the match with 61 per cent possession compared to Sweden’s 39 per cent. The French registered 25 shots against Sweden’s eight and earned nine corners, while Sweden managed just one.
Mexico Win Their First Knockout Match in 40 Years
Co-hosts Mexico recorded their first FIFA World Cup knockout-stage victory in 40 years by defeating a strong Ecuador side 2-0 on Wednesday.
Ecuador, who had stunned Germany during the league stage, looked surprisingly out of sorts. In the closing stages, their players became increasingly desperate and committed a series of aggressive fouls in search of a goal.
Julian Quinones opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a brilliant finish into the top corner. Just nine minutes later, Raul Jimenez capitalised on a defensive mistake by Joel Ordonez to double Mexico’s lead.
Mexico remained in complete control thereafter, preventing Ecuador from creating any meaningful scoring opportunities and sealing a well-deserved place in the Round of 16.
Round of 16 Fixtures Taking Shape
The Round of 16 lineup is now beginning to take shape. Norway will face Brazil, Canada will take on Morocco, and France are set to meet Paraguay.
Mexico’s opponents in the Round of 16 will be confirmed after the remaining knockout qualifiers are decided.
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