Manchester United fans got a flash of brilliance from Amad Diallo on Tuesday. It just wasn’t quite enough.
The Ivory Coast winger pulled off a stunning solo goal in the 74th minute to level the score against Norway in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. Diallo, 23, collected a quick one-two on the edge of the box, sliced through two defenders, and finished low past the Norwegian keeper. It was the kind of goal that makes you rewind the broadcast immediately.
Norway had taken the lead in the first half through Antonio Nusa, who got on the end of a Martin Odegaard assist. For most of the match, that 1-0 lead looked like it would hold. Norway controlled possession but couldn’t find a second goal. Erling Haaland, the guy everyone expected to bury them, had a frustrating night. He was denied twice at close range by blocks and sent a volley wide from a good spot. The game was drifting toward extra time.
Then everything changed
With the clock ticking down, Norway pushed again. Oscar Bobb slipped a pass down the right channel to Patrick Berg, who looked up and centered it. Haaland was there. The Manchester City striker buried it. Norway 2, Ivory Coast 1. The silence from the Ivory Coast fans said everything.
That goal sent Norway through to the Round of 16 for the first time in 28 years. They’ll face Brazil next. For Ivory Coast, making their knockout stage debut, it’s a brutal exit — but they leave with real respect. Diallo nearly forced extra time with a dipping free kick in stoppage time that goalkeeper Orjan Nyland tipped over the bar.
It was the kind of moment that defines tournaments. One stunning goal from a guy who doesn’t start every week for his club. Then a cold finish from the game’s most dangerous striker. That’s the World Cup for you.
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