Ivory Coast face Norway in historic first knockout match

The wait is over: Ivory Coast face Norway tonight

Your team plays its first ever World Cup knockout match on Monday. Norway in Arlington, Texas. The round of 32. Ivory Coast have never been here before, finishing second in Group E behind Germany to reach this stage.

Gervinho: the real threat is yourselves

Gervinho did not mince words ahead of the Norway match. The former star warned the squad that their biggest danger is not Erling Haaland. It is their own focus and discipline. Internal composure under the bright lights of a knockout debut, that is the test.

Diomande in the spotlight

Yan Diomande will share the pitch with Haaland and Martin Ødegaard on Monday. Liverpool and PSG are watching the young winger. Norway captain Ødegaard said he expects a different style of football from the Ivorians. It is a stage that invites a statement.

Brazil waiting in the last 16

Win this, and Brazil likely await. Gabriel Martinelli's stoppage-time winner against Japan sent the Seleção through. That is a problem for Tuesday. Norway first.

Fan reactions

The mood online is one of quiet pride mixed with anticipation. Ivory Coast fans on Reddit have noted their team now sits among 41 nations to have reached a World Cup knockout round, alongside DR Congo, Bosnia, South Africa, and Cape Verde, all still awaiting that first knockout win. The full list is here.