A thoroughly entertaining 2026 FIFA World Cup continued on Tuesday with a thrilling Round of 32 match between Norway and Cote d’Ivoire. The Norwegian side booked its place in the Round of 16 with a 2-1 win, courtesy of a late winner from noisy neighbor Erling Haaland.
Manchester United’s Amad did not get the start for the Ivorian side in this one, but his arrival in the 59th minute injected some serious energy into the team’s efforts. He scored a brilliant equalizer and nearly forced extra time with
a free kick in stoppage time, only to see it palmed away by Nyland on a diving save.
Amad moved into his preferred RW role, but had some freedom to move across the front line. He exchanged play with left-sided winger Diomande at times, and swapped positions with Nicolas Pepe at others. The freedom unlocked some of his best play, as was the case in the group stage with his late winner over Ecuador.
Amad found the net in the 74th minute with a brilliant individual effort, picking his way through the defense before firing a shot off through pressure.
And another look on the ref cam…
Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be for the Ivorians and Amad
Haaland’s go-ahead goal put the team in desperation mode. A free kick was won late and offered a chance for the winger to produce another bit of magic. It nearly happened, but it wasn’t enough.
