The knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026 have officially arrived, and for Norway, the stakes have never been higher. As they prepare to face a resilient Ivory Coast side at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, for their Round of 32 clash, fans around the world are asking one major question: Will Erling Haaland be back in the starting lineup?

After a frustrating viewing experience for fans during Norway’s final group-stage match, where the superstar striker sat on the bench for the entire 90 minutes, here is everything you need to know about Haaland’s status ahead of this must-win knockout tie.

Why Was Haaland Rested Against France?

Norway went into their final Group I fixture against France having already secured their ticket to the knockout rounds following thrilling victories over Iraq and Senegal. Knowing that qualification was in the bag, head coach Stale Solbakken made the calculated and somewhat controversial decision to make 10 changes to his starting XI.
This meant leaving out key players like Haaland and Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard. Unsurprisingly, a heavily rotated Norwegian side fell to a 4-1 defeat against the French powerhouse. Despite fans in Foxborough chanting “We want Haaland,” Solbakken stood by his choice.

He referred to the decision as a “no-brainer,” citing medical tests that showed fatigue across the squad. “It is 100% certain that we will need to be rested for the round of 32 mentally and physically,” Solbakken explained. “It could be that we have to play 30 minutes of extra time or penalties in the knockouts. We have to be more smart than greedy.”

Will Erling Haaland Start Against Ivory Coast?

The answer is yes. With the much-needed rest period behind him and elimination now on the line, the wait is over. Haaland is fully expected to return to the starting eleven alongside Ødegaard and Alexander Sørloth. Recent training footage from the Norwegian camp in North Carolina showed a smiling, fully fit Haaland in “knockout mode,” ready to lead the line.

The Manchester City forward has been nothing short of spectacular in this tournament. Having scored back-to-back braces against Iraq and Senegal, Haaland currently sits on four goals. He is right in the thick of the Golden Boot race, currently trailing only Lionel Messi, who leads the tournament with five goals.

If Haaland and Odegaard click, however, Norway could be unstoppable. The winner of this highly anticipated clash will advance to the Round of 16 to face five-time champions Brazil, setting the stage for yet another blockbuster matchup.