Norway Take Control as Antonio Nusa Fires First-Half Lead Against Ivory Coast

Norway has moved one step closer to the next round after taking a 1-0 lead over the Ivory Coast in the first half of their knockout encounter. A well-worked move in the 39th minute produced the breakthrough, with Antonio Nusa finding the back of the net after being set up by Martin Ødegaard.

For much of the opening half, both teams remained disciplined and cautious, knowing that one mistake could prove costly. Ivory Coast enjoyed spells of possession and attempted to build attacks through the midfield, but Norway's organized defensive shape prevented any clear scoring opportunities.

The breakthrough finally arrived just before halftime when Martin Ødegaard spotted Antonio Nusa making a dangerous run into the attacking third. Ødegaard delivered a precise pass that allowed Nusa to finish confidently, giving Norway a deserved lead at a crucial stage of the match.

The goal has shifted the pressure firmly onto Ivory Coast. Trailing in a knockout fixture means they must now respond with greater urgency in the second half while remaining careful not to leave space for Norway's dangerous counterattacks. Their attacking players will need to be more clinical and creative if they hope to get back into the contest.

Norway, meanwhile, will take confidence from both their defensive discipline and attacking efficiency. Holding a one-goal advantage allows them to manage the tempo while looking to exploit any openings created as Ivory Coast pushes more players forward in search of an equalizer.

With forty-five minutes still to play, the contest remains far from over. Ivory Coast has the quality to stage a comeback, but Norway has placed itself in a strong position. The second half will test both teams' composure, and whichever side handles the pressure better could secure a place in the next round.