Amad Diallo became the first Ivorian to score in a World Cup knockout match, but Erling Haaland’s late winner ended the Elephants’ historic run.

Dallas, United States (Running Africa) — Ivory Coast’s remarkable 2026 FIFA World Cup journey came to an end on Tuesday after a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 32, bringing the Elephants’ best-ever tournament campaign to a close.

Norway controlled much of the first half and took the lead through Antonio Nusa, who capitalized on the Scandinavian side’s early dominance to put his team ahead before the break.

Ivory Coast responded strongly in the second half, with Amad Diallo producing another influential performance after being introduced from the bench. The Manchester United winger first made a crucial goal-line clearance to deny Norway a second goal before equalizing in the 74th minute with a composed finish.

The strike was Diallo’s third goal of the tournament and his second as a substitute, reigniting debate over coach Emerse Faé’s decision not to include the in-form forward in the starting lineup for the knockout clash.

With momentum briefly shifting in the Ivory Coast’s favor, Erling Haaland restored Norway’s advantage, scoring the decisive goal that secured his side’s place in the Round of 16 and ended the Elephants’ historic campaign.

Despite the defeat, the Ivory Coast left the tournament having achieved their best FIFA World Cup performance, reaching the knockout stage for the first time in the nation’s history. The West African side advanced from the group stage with impressive victories over Ecuador and Curaçao, marking a significant milestone for Ivorian football on the global stage.

Following the Ivory Coast’s elimination, Morocco remains Africa’s only confirmed nation in the Round of 16, while Senegal and the Democratic Republic of the Congo were set to contest their Round of 32 fixtures later on Wednesday against Belgium and England, respectively.