Ryerson out as Norway prepare for Ivory Coast knockout

Ryerson likely out for the round of 16

Julian Ryerson is expected to miss Norway's World Cup knockout clash against Ivory Coast on Tuesday. Experts call it a clear weakening of the side (1). It is the most important Norway match in 28 years (7). Ståle Solbakken now has to reorganise his backline for the biggest test of this tournament.

Yan Diomande is the danger man

Ivory Coast have a 19-year-old jewel who can break your run. Yan Diomande has been one of the breakout stars of this World Cup, and Norwegian media have put the spotlight firmly on him ahead of the knockout tie (2). He comes from poverty, carries a deep family tragedy, and plays without fear (3).

And he may be doing it with a PSG move already sealed. Reports from Germany say RB Leipzig have a verbal agreement with PSG for Diomande, with an enormous fee on the table (5). Norway's defence will have to handle a teenager who is about to become one of the most expensive players in the world.

Venezuelan referee assigned

Alexis Valenzuela from Venezuela will officiate Ivory Coast vs Norway on Tuesday (4). The team know him. The stakes are massive. Solbakken's men have already exceeded expectations, but this is the match that defines whether the tournament becomes legendary.

France defeat still stings

Norway lost 4–1 to France in the group finale on Friday, a match that became a celebration of Guy Stéphan in the French dressing room (8). France topped Group I. Norway still advanced, and the 3–2 win over Senegal with Haaland's double did the real work. The France loss changes nothing about the knockout place. It is already behind you.

Fan reactions

The mood among fans is a mix of nerves and disbelief. Norway in a World Cup knockout match, and the feeling online is that the country has already won something bigger than a trophy. The Ryerson injury has dampened some of the buzz, but most supporters seem to trust Solbakken to find a way. Read the full discussion on r/NorskFotball