By Ghazali Ibrahim
Norway produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday, defeating Brazil 2-1 in a Round of 16 clash to book a historic place in the quarter-finals.
Erling Haaland scored twice in the closing stages of the match to stun the five-time world champions, with Brazil only managing a late consolation through Neymar from the penalty spot in stoppage time.
The match, played at New York New Jersey Stadium, seemed to be heading toward extra time after both sides struggled to break the deadlock for much of the contest. Brazil created several opportunities but failed to capitalize, including a first-half penalty missed by Bruno Guimarães, whose effort was saved by Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland.
Norway eventually found the breakthrough in the 79th minute when Haaland headed home from a cross by substitute Andreas Schjelderup. The striker struck again just before full time, finishing another Schjelderup assist to put them firmly in control.
Brazil reduced the deficit deep into added time after Neymar converted a penalty, but there was no time left for a comeback as Norway held on for a famous victory.
The result marks Norway’s first-ever appearance in the World Cup quarter-finals and extends the nation’s remarkable unbeaten record against Brazil in senior men’s international football.
Haaland also continued his prolific tournament, taking his goal tally to seven and strengthening his bid for the Golden Boot.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti admitted after the match that his side created chances but lacked the cutting edge needed to overcome Norway’s disciplined defence.
“We created opportunities but didn’t take them,” Ancelotti said, adding that the team must learn from the defeat and continue rebuilding, particularly in midfield.
The defeat is Brazil’s earliest World Cup exit since 1990 and ends hopes of a sixth world title.
Emotional scenes followed the final whistle as Neymar left the pitch in tears, with widespread speculation that the tournament could mark his final World Cup appearance for Brazil.
Norway, meanwhile, celebrated one of the greatest moments in the country’s football history.
Thousands of supporters gathered in Oslo and across the country to mark the famous victory, with Haaland describing it as “one of the sickest days ever in Norwegian history.”
The Norwegians will face England in the quarter-finals after the Three Lions edged Mexico 3-2 later on Sunday.
