Norway produced one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating five-time champions Brazil 2-1 to secure a place in the quarter-finals, with Erling Haalan scoring both goals in a dramatic Round of 16 clash.
The Manchester City striker, who had been kept quiet for much of the contest, came to life in the closing stages, netting twice within 10 minutes to send the Scandinavian side into the last eight. Brazil pulled one back through Neymar from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time, but the late goal proved only a consolation.
The victory also saw Haaland move level at the top of the tournament’s Golden Boot standings with seven goals.
Norway threatened early when Patrick Berg found the net just three minutes into the game, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
Despite enjoying more of the ball in the opening exchanges, Norway struggled to break down Brazil’s defence, while the South Americans looked dangerous on the counter through Vinicius Junior.
Brazil were handed a golden opportunity to take the lead after Matheus Cunha was fouled inside the penalty area. Following a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty, but Bruno Guimaraes failed to convert as goalkeeper Orjan Nyland comfortably saved his effort.
The missed spot-kick proved costly.
Nyland continued to frustrate Brazil with a series of impressive saves, denying Vinicius, Gabriel Martinelli and later Rayan as Brazil increased the pressure after the break.
Coach Dorival Júnior introduced Endrick and later Neymar in search of a breakthrough, but Norway’s disciplined defence held firm.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 79th minute when Andreas Schjelderup delivered a pinpoint cross for Haaland, who rose above the defenders to head past Alisson.
With Brazil pushing forward in search of an equaliser, Norway struck again in the 89th minute. Haaland capitalised on the space left by Brazil’s defence and calmly finished to double his side’s advantage.
Brazil were awarded another penalty in stoppage time after a VAR intervention, and Neymar converted to reduce the deficit, but there was no time left to complete a comeback.
Norway held on for a famous victory, knocking Brazil out of the tournament and booking a quarter-final meeting as their remarkable World Cup run continued.
