Antonio Nusa delivered another impressive display as Norway defeated Ivory Coast to reach the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
DALLAS, UNITED STATES — Antonio Nusa won the FIFA Man of the Match award after inspiring Norway to a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash on Monday. The young winger opened the scoring with a stunning first-half strike as Norway secured a historic place in the next round of the tournament, according to FIFA match reports.
Nusa put Norway ahead in the 39th minute with a curling effort that beat the Ivorian goalkeeper and gave the European side control of the contest. Ivory Coast fought back through Amad Diallo, who scored an equaliser to set up a tense finish. However, Erling Haaland found the winner late in the match to send Norway through to the Round of 16.
FIFA later named Nusa as the official Man of the Match following his outstanding performance. The winger’s pace and creativity caused problems for the Ivorian defence throughout the encounter and proved crucial in Norway’s attacking play. Reports from the game described his opening goal as one of the standout moments of the match.
The victory marks another significant achievement for Norway, which continues to impress at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a squad led by Haaland, Nusa and captain Martin Ødegaard. The team had entered the knockout stage with confidence after a strong group campaign and now prepares for an even tougher challenge in the next round.
The development means Norway will now face Brazil in the Round of 16, a match that promises to be one of the biggest fixtures of the knockout stage. Nusa’s form has also strengthened his growing reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young talents and a key figure in Norway’s push for a deep run at the World Cup.
Antonio Nusa won the FIFA Man Of The Match Against Ivory Coast
