World Cup: Ivory Coast eliminated

Ivory Coast's World Cup 2026 campaign ends in the Round of 32 following their 2-1 defeat to Norway, who will go on to face Brazil in the Round of 16.

At Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, the Elephants produced an outstanding performance but fell just short of a historic qualification. Côte d'Ivoire started brightly and threatened from the opening stages, only for Norway to take the lead through a stunning strike from Nusa in the 39th minute. The African side responded strongly and pushed for an equaliser throughout the second half, eventually making it 1-1 thanks to a brilliant solo effort from Amad Diallo in the 74th minute. The match looked destined for extra time, but Erling Braut Haaland's fifth goal of the tournament in the 86th minute secured victory and a place in the Round of 16 for Norway, despite Côte d'Ivoire's late onslaught.

The result also brings Ange-Yoan Bonny's North American World Cup campaign to an end. The Inter forward was named in the starting XI by Head Coach Emerse Faé for the Round of 32 clash, playing 60 minutes before being replaced by Wahi. Bonny finishes the tournament with four appearances and 236 minutes played, having helped Côte d'Ivoire reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in the nation's history.