Norway enters this one fully recharged after resting key starters in their last match. Their attack is relentless in volume and quality, led by the Ødegaard-Haaland connection that can unlock even the best defenses. Norway have scored in 22 straight competitive matches, showing they can create chances consistently.
However, their defensive issues remain a glaring concern. This is a leaky backline that has conceded heavily in xG terms and earned just one clean sheet in their last nine games. That vulnerability gives opponents real opportunities on the counter and in transition.
Ivory Coast is well-equipped to exploit it. Their midfield is built to control tempo and disrupt Norway’s rhythm, while their fluid transition threats have the pace and movement to punish an open defensive shape. The Ivorians should be able to dominate stretches of the game and stay competitive from minute one to 90.
While Norway’s star power should eventually find a way through late, I expect Ivory Coast to make this a proper battle throughout.
Take: Ivory Coast +0.5 (-130)

Let’s cash some tickets!