

Lineup
The head-to-head story
Norway enters this matchup with a clear rating advantage and superior recent form. While the two nations have no prior history outside of their recent World Cup meeting, Norway's higher Elo standing and consistent performance suggest they are well-positioned to challenge Côte d'Ivoire's defensive structure.
What kind of game?
Côte d'Ivoire's reliance on set pieces creates a distinct tactical contrast against Norway. While both sides show similar defensive resistance, Côte d'Ivoire looks to dead-ball situations to generate momentum, whereas Norway maintains a higher overall threat profile in open play.
| Axis | CIV | NOR |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 59.6% | 57.8% |
| Defending | 5.0 resistance | 4.7 resistance |
| Set pieces | 32.1% | 24.0% |
| Threat | 1.29 xG/match | 1.65 xG/match |
Where it'll be decided
The central channel remains the primary focal point for both sides. With both teams heavily concentrating their attacking play through the middle, the match will likely hinge on which side can better secure the central corridor against their opponent's pressure.
Who to watch
Côte d'Ivoire's tactical system and Norway's individual star power define the primary tactical battle. Côte d'Ivoire will look to dictate the match through high possession and set-piece dominance, while Norway's reliance on star-led moments provides a direct counter-threat. Success for either side hinges on whether the Ivorian system can sustain its rhythm or if Norway's key players can exploit the space created by the high-possession approach.