Ivory Coast vs Norway Match Preview | OneFootball

Ivory Coast and Norway clash in Dallas in what promises to be one of the most exciting last 32 ties of the World Cup.

The Ivorians won two of their three group games, and even in the one they lost – 2-1 to Germany – the Africans performed well throughout the clash. In their fourth trip to the World Cup, the nation reached the knockout stages for the first time.

For Norway, this is the second World Cup in which they have made progress out of the group. Last time, in 1998, the Norwegians suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Italy. Having rested ten players against France, Ståle Solbakken will bring his stars back into the starting XI for this tie.

Ivory Coast can spring a surprise

Having been drawn in a group containing Germany, Ecuador and Curacao, the Ivory Coast would have been confident of progression.

The opening clash against the South Americans was earmarked as the most important, with the winner setting themselves up nicely for the rest of the group stage. A late goal from Amad Diallo proved sufficient to seal all three points in the opener.

It looked as though it could be two wins from two as Franck Kessié scored to make it 1-0 against the Germans. But Julian Nagelsmann’s side fought back to secure the win, yet the belief to actually take the game to the Europeans was impressive. Second place was sealed after a routine 2-0 win over Curacao.

Of course, an easier tie would have been preferred, especially with Brazil or Japan awaiting the winner of this one. Reaching this stage, though, represents new ground for the Ivory Coast, and they have the players to cause plenty of problems for Norway.

Yan Diomande and Diallo have shone throughout the group. Manager Emerse Fae will be counting on the duo to maintain these levels.

Norway might start the match as favorites, but don’t be surprised to see the Ivory Coast progress.

Solbakken ready to bring back his stars for knockout stage clash

Resting his star performers for the final group stage match against France could well turn out to be a wise decision by Solbakken. Erling Haaland, Martin Ødegaard and Antonio Nusa were among the ten players dropped to the bench.

In the end, the 4-1 result didn’t really matter as Norway were already through. The big hitters will return against the Ivory Coast and will be ready to spearhead a charge into the last 16.

Haaland has already scored four times across his two matches and will be desperate to add more, given the race for the Golden Boot is heating up.

Ødegaard has provided two assists so far, enjoying a productive tournament, but now is where it really starts.

This crop of players has rightfully been dubbed a ‘golden generation’, but just how far can they go?

Progress against the Ivory Coast will likely set up a last-16 tie with Brazil. Defeat the South Americans, and England could lie in wait in the quarter-finals.

There are no easy games at the World Cup. Norway, however, have two of the finest players in the world, who, at their best, can prove decisive.

Team news

Wilfried Singo could be missing for the Ivory Coast. The defender was absent for the win over Curacao. He remains Fae’s only injury concern.

Julian Ryserson is a major doubt for the Norwegians. He missed training due to a thigh issue, and it remains to be seen whether he is fit enough for the bench.

Prediction

While several of the knockout ties might prove to be slow burners and be decided by a late goal, I reckon this one will live up to the hype.

Two squads brimming with talent going toe-to-toe with each other for a space in the last 16 is what everyone wants to see.

Given the fact that Norway rested many of their big performers gives the Scandinavians a slight edge in this tie that could work in their favour, especially if it goes into extra-time.

I don’t think the match will go the distance, with Norway running out 3-1 victors in the end.