Norway produced a historic upset on Sunday as they defeated Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Erling Haaland scored both goals for Norway to send his team into the quarter-finals for the first time.
The match took place at the New York New Jersey Stadium. Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland stood out early. Brazil won a penalty in the 12th minute after Kristoffer Ajer fouled Matheus Cunha. Bruno Guimaraes took the spot kick, but Nyland saved it. Nyland also denied Vinicius Junior and other threats before halftime.
Norway controlled much of the possession in the first half. However, Brazil created better chances. The score remained 0-0 at the break.
Norway coach Stale Solbakken made substitutions at halftime. Andreas Schjelderup entered and helped create the breakthrough. In the 79th minute, Schjelderup delivered a precise cross from the left. Haaland powered a header past goalkeeper Alisson to give Norway a 1-0 lead.
Haaland added a second goal near the end of regular time. He steered a shot through defender Danilo and past Alisson. The strike sparked celebrations among Norwegian fans.
Brazil pushed forward late. Neymar converted a penalty in the 10th minute of stoppage time to make it 2-1. The goal came too late for a comeback.
Norway forward Erling Haaland spoke after the match. “I dreamt of playing in the World Cup with Norway, but I never expected to win against Brazil,” he said. “I thought it was not possible to do some things, but I guess I’m wrong.”
Norway coach Stale Solbakken praised his team’s effort. “We played a solid, tactical game,” he said. “We should be damn proud of that.”
The victory eliminated Brazil, the five-time champions, in their earliest World Cup exit since 1990. Norway will face the winner of England versus Mexico in the quarter-finals on July 11 in Miami.
