Ivory Coast head coach Emerson Fae confident ahead of Norway round-of-32 clash

The Elephants have reached the knockout stages of a World Cup for the first time in their history, finishing second in Group E behind Germany on goal difference after both sides ended on six points. Emerse Fae's team combined late drama with resilience to secure qualification.

They opened with a 1-0 win over Ecuador courtesy of Amad Diallo's 90th-minute winner, before a narrow 2-1 defeat to Germany despite Franck Kessie's opener. They responded strongly with a 2-0 victory over Curacao, where Nicolas Pepe struck twice to seal progression.

Fae described the achievement as a moment of pride, but insisted his side are aiming higher.

"Pride is the first word that comes to mind. We knew we could do it, and we also knew it was going to be difficult. We did it," he said.

"We're happy and proud, but we're looking even further ahead."

Norway also advanced from the group stage, finishing second in Group I with two wins from three matches under Stale Solbakken. They have been led by Erling Haaland, who remains central to their attacking threat.

The Norwegians began with a 4-1 win over Iraq, with Haaland scoring twice, before edging Senegal 3-2 in another match where he found the net again. Their only defeat came in a 4-1 loss to France, in a game that might have turned had Jorgen Strand Larsen converted a penalty at 3-2.

Fae has warned against underestimating Norway's structure and efficiency.

"They are a good team, very organised, very pragmatic and clinical in front of goal," he said. "We will try to control the game and impose our pace." 

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