Tuesday’s action from World Cup 2026 begins with an enticing Round of 32 clash between Ivory Coast and Norway.
Two of the tournament’s dark horses collide at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, with the winner going on to play either Brazil or Japan.
It promises to be quite the spectacle in Texas, and below is our full match preview, complete with sports betting tips and the latest World Cup odds.
And with knockout games coming thick and fast this week, remember you can increase your winning potential with NetBet’s fantastic customisation tools such as Bet Builder and Acca Boost.
Where can I watch Ivory Coast vs Norway in the UK?
Ivory Coast vs Norway will be broadcast live on BBC One, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm UK time.
Ivory Coast vs Norway Preview
Recent results
Ivory Coast beat Ecuador 1-0 in their group-stage opener before losing 2-1 to Germany. But the Elephants did not let the setback phase them, claiming a 2-0 victory over Curacao to secure the runner-up spot in Group E. Emerse Fae’s side have won five of their last six matches, an impressive run indeed.
Norway started the group stage with consecutive wins over Iraq (4-1) and Senegal (3-2), before suffering a 4-1 loss to France and finishing in the runner-up spot. However, manager Stale Solbakken made wholesale changes to his XI for the match vs Les Bleus, with four-goal Erling Haaland and skipper Martin Odegaard each given a full rest ahead of this tie.
Head-to-head record
This is the first meeting between Ivory Coast and Norway in any competition. But interestingly, the Norwegians have lost just two of their previous 19 games vs African opposition.
Team news
Wilfried Singo is set to miss out for Ivory Coast after the injury he suffered in the defeat to Germany. The rest of the Elephants’ squad looks in good shape, though, with young winger Yan Diomande already displaying his quality at this tournament.
Julian Ryerson is the major fitness doubt for Norway, but Haaland, Odegaard, Antonio Nusa and all the other big hitters should return to the Vikings’ starting XI.
Ivory Coast vs Norway Odds
*All odds are subject to change
Norway are clear favourites to win here at a price of 1.98. A victory for Ivory Coast is at odds of 3.56, while the draw after 90 minutes is 3.47.
Ivory Coast vs Norway Betting Tips
Both teams to score – Yes @ 1.62
The BTTS pick has been a real source of profit from matches involving Norway at World Cup 2026. It landed in all three group games, and with Ivory Coast netting at least once in the previous 12 games, the bet gets our nod of approval once again.
Anytime goalscorer – Erling Haaland @ 1.73
Haaland’s record on the international stage is quite simply sensational, with 59 goals scored in 52 appearances. The Manchester City striker has also netted four times at this tournament, making him the standout pick in this market.
Norway total goals – Over 1.5 @ 1.87
When Haaland, Odegaard and Nusa are in full flow as an attacking unit, it is quite hard to stop. So while Ivory Coast are not an overly weak team defensively, we are backing Norway to strike multiple times in Arlington – with Haaland right in the thick of it.
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