Ananya Lohia , Mexico - Norway created history by reaching the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 for the first time after defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 in a thrilling knockout clash on Tuesday. Erling Haaland emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal late in the match to seal Norway's first-ever World Cup knockout victory.

The breakthrough came just before half-time when Antonio Nusa produced a stunning curling effort into the top corner after being set up by Martin Odegaard. Ivory Coast responded strongly in the second half and found the equaliser in the 74th minute through Amad Diallo, whose brilliant solo run brought the African side back into the contest. As the match appeared destined for extra time, Patrick Berg delivered a dangerous cross into the box in the 86th minute. Haaland reacted quickest, poking the ball home from close range to score his fifth goal of the tournament and restore Norway's lead.

Ivory Coast pushed for another equaliser in the closing moments, but goalkeeper Orjan Nyland made a crucial save to deny Diallo from a free-kick and ensure Norway held on for the historic win. The victory sends Norway into the Round of 16, where they will face Brazil in a blockbuster clash for a place in the quarter-finals.