2026 World Cup: ‘Disgraceful’ — Drogba Fumes as Norway Eliminate Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d’Ivoire legend Didier Drogba has criticised the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) following his country’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The former Chelsea striker expressed his frustration after the Elephants suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Norway in their Round of 32 encounter on Tuesday night.

Norway progressed to the Round of 16 courtesy of a late winner from Erling Haaland, ending Côte d’Ivoire’s impressive World Cup campaign.

Antonio Nusa had given the Europeans the lead in the first half after curling a superb effort beyond goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.

Côte d’Ivoire responded positively after the break and eventually found an equaliser through Manchester United winger Amad Diallo, who produced an excellent solo effort to restore parity in the 74th minute.

With the match seemingly heading for extra time, Norway struck the decisive goal late in the contest.

Patrick Berg delivered a low pass into the penalty area, allowing Haaland to convert from close range and send the Scandinavian side into the next round.

However, Drogba believes Côte d’Ivoire were denied a crucial opportunity after Nicolas Pépé appeared to be fouled inside the penalty area during the match.

Reacting after the final whistle, the former Ivory Coast captain questioned why the incident was not reviewed in favour of his country despite the availability of VAR technology.

Taking to his official X account, Drogba wrote: “Disgraceful that penalty not given for Nicolas Pépé… what is VAR even for?”

His comments have added to growing debate over several refereeing decisions at the ongoing World Cup, with fans and pundits continuing to scrutinise the effectiveness of VAR in key moments.

Despite the disappointment, Côte d’Ivoire earned praise for their spirited performance throughout the tournament, reaching the knockout rounds for the first time before narrowly falling to Norway.

Norway, meanwhile, celebrated their first-ever World Cup knockout victory and will now face five-time champions Brazil in the Round of 16.

The clash promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the next stage, with Haaland hoping to continue his goalscoring form against one of football’s traditional powerhouses.

For Côte d’Ivoire, the defeat brought an emotional end to a memorable campaign that showcased the nation’s growing strength on the global stage despite the painful exit.