Erling Haaland Scores Twice as Norway Pull Off Stunning Upset Over Brazil to Reach World Cup Quarterfinals for First Time
Norway have reached the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time after a stunning 2-1 victory over Brazil in New Jersey. Erling Haaland scored a brace, dumping the five-time world champions out of the tournament.
The match began with Norway starting brightly, but a well-orchestrated goal was ruled out for offside. Brazil were then awarded a penalty after a VAR review, but Bruno Guimaraes' effort was comfortably saved by Orjan Nyland.
Carlo Ancelotti's side continued to push for an opener, with Gabriel Martinelli and Vinicius Junior both denied by Nyland. Norway's Martin Odegaard also had chances, firing into the side netting and forcing Alisson Becker into a save.
The introduction of Endrick for Brazil in the second half almost paid off, but he fired wide after latching onto a through ball. Norway sensed an opportunity and Haaland twice went close to connecting with deliveries from deep inside the box.
Haaland eventually broke the deadlock with a stunning header from Andreas Schjelderup's cross, before drilling a left-footed strike past Alisson to seal the win. Brazil netted a consolation in stoppage time, with Neymar converting from the penalty spot after Leo Ostigard was penalised for an aerial challenge.
Norway will face the winners of the last-16 tie between Mexico and England in the quarter-finals, while Brazil's defeat extends their losing streak against European opposition in the World Cup to seven games.
The match began with Norway starting brightly, but a well-orchestrated goal was ruled out for offside. Brazil were then awarded a penalty after a VAR review, but Bruno Guimaraes' effort was comfortably saved by Orjan Nyland.
Carlo Ancelotti's side continued to push for an opener, with Gabriel Martinelli and Vinicius Junior both denied by Nyland. Norway's Martin Odegaard also had chances, firing into the side netting and forcing Alisson Becker into a save.
The introduction of Endrick for Brazil in the second half almost paid off, but he fired wide after latching onto a through ball. Norway sensed an opportunity and Haaland twice went close to connecting with deliveries from deep inside the box.
Haaland eventually broke the deadlock with a stunning header from Andreas Schjelderup's cross, before drilling a left-footed strike past Alisson to seal the win. Brazil netted a consolation in stoppage time, with Neymar converting from the penalty spot after Leo Ostigard was penalised for an aerial challenge.
Norway will face the winners of the last-16 tie between Mexico and England in the quarter-finals, while Brazil's defeat extends their losing streak against European opposition in the World Cup to seven games.
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