Sabasports Match Preview
World Cup: Ivory Coast vs Norway
Kickoff Time: 2026-7-1 1:00 (HKT)
In the group stage, Ivory Coast posted two wins and one loss, qualifying for the knockout round as the group’s second-placed side. Tactically, Ivory Coast adopt a 4-2-3-1 counter-formation. Rather than chasing possession blindly, they focus on winning battles in central midfield. The double pivot partnership of Franck Kessié and Ibrahim Sangaré bears the core responsibility of shutting down the opposition’s midfield. Ivory Coast place heavy emphasis on the tempo and speed of quick transitions. Their midfielders look to play vertical passes the moment openings appear. The one-on-one dribbling threat of Yan Diomande and Amad Diallo down both flanks acts as two sharp cutting edges for their attack. Notably, veteran Nicolas Pépé has enjoyed a resurgence in form. He bagged a brace in the final group match, and his red-hot run will provide the team with extra attacking outlets. Furthermore, Ivory Coast’s defensive line has delivered solid performances, conceding just one goal across three group games with outstanding defensive discipline.
Norway also recorded two wins and one loss in the group stage, advancing to the knockout round as group runners-up. Operating out of a 4-3-3 setup, captain Martin Ødegaard functions as the team’s midfield metronome, orchestrating play and supplying service for Erling Haaland. In attack, Norway prioritise ruthless efficiency. They bypass central midfield to target wide wingbacks, who exploit their pace to burst in behind opposing defences before delivering crosses for Haaland. So far, Haaland has netted four goals; his poaching inside the box, aerial prowess and composure in one-on-one chances represent Norway’s most potent attacking weapon. In stark contrast to their prolific frontline, Norway’s defence looks somewhat fragile. Their backline consists of tall, cumbersome defenders who lack recovery pace, while their wide defensive coverage is also weak. Norway conceded goals in every one of their three group fixtures, failing to keep a clean sheet even against lower-ranked opponents such as Jordan. There is no question that Norway boast an elite attacking threat, yet their defensive unit carries numerous vulnerabilities.
In terms of overall squad quality, Norway, with Erling Haaland in their ranks, hold an edge in both talent and global profile over Ivory Coast. That said, Ivory Coast stand out for their defensive solidity, and their dangerous wide players capable of beating defenders one-on-one will pose immense pressure on Norway’s backline. Additionally, Ivory Coast’s dominant midfield pressing and ball-winning capacity will stifle Norway’s supply lines to Haaland. All factors considered, Ivory Coast’s robust defence makes them the side tipped to avoid defeat and push for a win in this fixture.
Ivory Coast ‘s Last 5 Games: WLWWW
26-06-26 Curaçao 0-2 Ivory Coast
26-06-21 Germany 2-1 Ivory Coast
26-06-15 Ivory Coast 1-0 Ecuador
26-06-05 France 1-2 Ivory Coast
26-04-01 Scotland 0-1 Ivory Coast
Norway ‘s Last 5 Games: LWWDW
26-06-26 Norway 1-4 France
26-06-20 Norway 3-2 Senegal
26-06-13 Iraq 1-4 Norway
26-06-06 Morocco 1-1 Norway
26-04-01 Norway 3-1 Sweden
Prediction: Ivory Coast to win or draw