
Norway causes the biggest surprise of the 2026 World Cup, eliminating Brazil with a score of 2-1 in the round of 16.
The absolute hero of the challenge in New Jersey is Erling Haaland, who scores a brace and sends the Scandinavians to the quarterfinals of a World Cup for the first time.
The match starts at a high pace and Norway thinks they are taking the lead, but Patrick Berg's goal is disallowed for offside by Alexander Sørloth.
Brazil then wins a penalty after Kristoffer Ajer brings down Matheus Cunha, but Bruno Guimarães misses from the spot after goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland saves his shot.
The Brazilians create more chances with Gabriel Martinelli and Vinícius Júnior, but Nyland plays an exceptional game, keeping the goal intact. On the other hand, Martin Ødegaard and the Norwegians continue to threaten Alisson Becker's goal.
In the second half, coach Carlo Ancelotti activates Endrick, who misses a golden opportunity only to face Nyland. The Norwegian goalkeeper continues to be decisive against Rayan, while Norway gains more and more ground.
In the 79th minute, the long-awaited moment arrived. Andreas Schjelderup crossed from the left and Erling Haaland headed the ball into the far post, giving Norway the lead.
Just a few minutes later, the Manchester City forward sealed the outcome of the match. Haaland seized another opportunity and with a precise left-footed shot beat Alisson for the second time, silencing the five-time world champions.
Brazil only managed to soften the defeat in extra time. After a penalty won by Casemiro, Neymar scored from the penalty spot for the final score of 2-1.
With this double, Haaland reaches the quota of seven goals at the 2026 World Cup, tying Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé at the top of the race for the "Golden Boot".
Norway thus secures a historic qualification to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the match between Mexico and England, while Brazil is eliminated from the World Cup and records its seventh consecutive defeat against European teams in the knockout stages of the World Cup.
RESULT:
BRAZIL 1-2 NORWAY
Neymar (P) 90+10′ / Haaland 79′, 90′