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DHAKA TUESDAY JUNE 30, 2026, ASHAR 16, 1433 BS

AGENCIES

Erling Haaland will be the centre of attention in Dallas on Tuesday, but the Ivory Coast will be hoping to highlight some attacking talent of their own when they take on Norway in their World Cup Round of 32 clash.

Norway’s one-man wrecking ball has four goals in his two appearances at the tournament and is set to return after being rested in the last group game against France, as were most of the Norwegian first-choice players.

Haaland scored twice against Iraq in Norway’s return to the World Cup after a 28-year absence and was at his predatory best as they beat Senegal to secure their progress after only two group games.

Ivory Coast’s planning will centre on how to stop Haaland in what is sure to be a thorough examination of the West African team’s defence that has conceded just one goal in the group stage.

But coach Emerse Fae will also be looking to have his side on the front foot and take the game to Norway - and keep Haaland off the ball.

The Ivorians have an exciting array of forward talent, led by teenager Yan Diomande, who is another dominating the club pre-season transfer market speculation, and former Arsenal record signing Nicolas Pepe, who scored twice in their last match against Curacao and is reviving his reputation.