Ivory Coast has advanced past the World Cup group stage for the first time, having missed out in 2006, 2010, and 2014 despite possessing a "golden generation" that included Didier Drogba and the Toure brothers. For Norway, this marks their second appearance in the knockout stages, coming 28 years after their last World Cup participation in 1998.

Norway enters the round of 16 after finishing second in Group I. The team secured wins against Iraq 4-1 and Senegal 3-1, before a 1-4 loss to France. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast also finished second in Group E, with a 1-0 victory over Ecuador, a 1-2 defeat to Germany, and a 2-0 win against Curacao.

After securing early qualification, coach Solbakken made a bold decision to rest several key players, fielding a reserve squad against France. Consequently, the European side is considered to have a fitness advantage for their upcoming match in Dallas.

Both teams boast strong offensive lineups. Norway features Erling Haaland, who has already scored 4 goals in two matches, alongside renowned attackers like Alexander Sorloth and Martin Odegaard. Ivory Coast counters with Yan Diomande, recognized as the best young player in the Bundesliga, supported by Ahmad Diallo and Nicolas Pepe.

However, the African team's midfield and defense are highly rated. Their players not only compete in top European leagues but also possess exceptional physical conditioning. Midfielders such as Franck Kessie, Seko Fofana, and Ibrahim Sangare will be tasked with disrupting the supply line to Haaland.

Hieu Luong