Norway head coach Stale Solbakken issued a playful but confident warning to Brazil after guiding his team to a historic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. The match, played in Texas, marked Norway's first-ever win in a World Cup knockout match, ending a drought that stretched back to previous exits in 1938 and 1998.
Solbakken's bold message to Ancelotti
In a video shared by Planeta do Futebol on X, Solbakken delivered a passionate speech in Norwegian to his squad before switching to English to address Brazil's legendary manager. "Carlo Ancelotti, we're coming for you!" he declared, prompting laughter, cheers, and loud applause from the jubilant players. Star striker Erling Haaland also celebrated the milestone on social media, sharing a match photo on Instagram with the caption: "A day we'll never forget."
How Norway secured the victory
The win was hard-earned. Ivory Coast controlled the opening exchanges, with winger Nicolas Pepe forcing an early save from Norwegian goalkeeper Orjan Nyland. Norway found their footing and broke the deadlock in the 39th minute. Captain Martin Odegaard orchestrated a slick team move, finding 21-year-old Antonio Nusa, who curled a magnificent effort into the top corner. The strike made Nusa the youngest-ever Norwegian goalscorer at a major international tournament.
After the interval, Ivory Coast fought back fiercely. In the 74th minute, substitute Amad Diallo leveled the score at 1-1 following a dazzling solo run and combination play with Pepe. With extra time looming, Norway's star power made the difference. In the 86th minute, Oscar Bobb and Patrick Berg combined to slice open the Ivorian defense, laying the ball off for Haaland to tap home from close range. The goal was Haaland's 60th international strike.
Upcoming clash with Brazil
Norway's reward is a blockbuster matchup against five-time world champions Brazil on Monday. Brazil, under Carlo Ancelotti, advanced to the Round of 16 by defeating Japan 2-1 in their own knockout fixture. Solbakken's men now face their ultimate tactical test with a spot in the World Cup quarterfinals on the line.
