Analyzing the chances and turning points that could enable Ivory Coast to upset Norway in the 2026 World Cup Round of 32, live on Thairath TV Channel 32.
Thairath TV Channel 32 is set to broadcast live the intense 2026 World Cup Round of 32 match between Ivory Coast and Norway on the night of 30 June, with coverage starting at 23:50 (kickoff at 00:00).
Looking back, Ivory Coast has often been remembered as a nation filled with world-class superstars such as Didier Drogba, Yaya Touré, and Kolo Touré, yet they failed to advance beyond the group stage in the 2006, 2010, and 2014 World Cups.
However, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up as a new historic chapter, as the "Elephants" have made it to the knockout stage for the first time in their fourth World Cup finals appearance, ranked 6th in Africa and 31st globally, with many now seeing them as potential surprise contenders.
Reflecting on the past, Ivory Coast boasted legends like Didier Drogba, the nation's all-time top scorer with 65 goals who led them in three World Cups; Yaya Touré, a four-time African Footballer of the Year and key figure in their 2015 Africa Cup of Nations triumph; and Kolo Touré, the record holder with 120 national caps. These legends laid the foundation for the current era of Ivorian football development.
The current national team’s strength lies in blending experienced players with emerging talents. Captain Franck Kessié is the midfield linchpin, controlling the tempo and linking defense to attack, demonstrated by his dangerous scoring against Germany in the group stage. On the wings, Ahmad Diallo, a speedy winger adept in tight spaces, scored the winning goal in their 1-0 opening victory over Ecuador.
Additionally, young forward Yann Djimandé is drawing attention for his one-on-one skills, composure under pressure, and pace in breaking defenses, providing an assist against Curaçao. Experienced attacker Nicolas Pépé supplements the offense with sharp finishing and trademark long-range shots, netting two goals in three matches, both in the 2-0 win over Curaçao.
Norway finished second in Group I after opening with a 4-1 win over Iraq, then defeating Senegal 3-2 before losing 1-4 to France. In that last match, Norway rested 10 key players as they had already secured qualification. Their star player Erling Haaland scored 4 of the team’s 8 goals, but their defense conceded 7 goals in three games, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities despite a varied attack.
In the group stage, Ivory Coast finished second in Group E after a 1-0 win over Ecuador, a 1-2 loss to Germany, and a 2-0 victory against Curaçao. They scored 4 goals and conceded only 2, keeping 2 clean sheets. While their attack was modest, their defense was disciplined, resilient, and rarely allowed opponents easy chances.
A crucial weapon for Ivory Coast against Norway could be their solid defense, conceding only 2 goals in the group stage, combined with quick counterattacks spearheaded by Ahmad Diallo and Yann Djimandé attacking the flanks. This could exploit Norway’s porous defense that conceded 7 goals and show weaknesses especially during counterattacks.
Ivory Coast also boasts technically skilled and physically strong midfielders who must focus on neutralizing Martin Ødegaard, Norway’s primary playmaker controlling their creative distribution. Their midfield’s ability to advance the ball quickly and exploit gaps when Norway’s formation breaks down could have a significant impact, similar to how France exploited this vulnerability.
Another key factor is minimizing conceding set pieces, as Norway’s attack relies heavily on physicality, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing by Erling Haaland. Ivory Coast’s defensive plan must include close marking, strong concentration, and disciplined defending, avoiding fouls in dangerous areas. Playing patiently and limiting set-piece opportunities could increase their chances of beating Norway.
Although Norway is considered the favorite, Ivory Coast has proven they are not mere underdogs, with strengths in physicality, defensive discipline, and dangerous counterattacks that could disrupt Norway’s uncertain defense and potentially produce a shocking upset against a strong European side.