Norway Stuns Brazil as Haaland’s Double Sends Five-Time Champions Packing
Erling Haaland delivered a commanding performance as Norway produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating five-time champions Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16 at MetLife Stadium.
The Manchester City striker struck twice – in the 70th and 90th minutes, to secure Norway’s first-ever quarterfinal appearance and send Brazil crashing out in the knockout stage. Neymar responded with a penalty in the 10th minute of added time before announcing his immediate retirement from international football, bringing an emotional end to his long career with the Seleção.
Haaland was named Man of the Match after tormenting the Brazilian defence with his movement and clinical finishing. His seven goals in the tournament have made him one of the standout performers, while Norway’s disciplined approach and effective counter-attacks proved decisive against a Brazilian side that struggled to impose its usual rhythm.
The match remained tight for long periods, with Brazil enjoying spells of possession but failing to create clear-cut chances. Norway absorbed pressure and struck effectively on the break, exposing defensive gaps that ultimately proved costly for the favourites.
After the match, Haaland paid tribute to his teammates. “This is for Norway. We believed in ourselves and we fought until the end,” he said. “To beat Brazil like this is something special.”
Casemiro, who played a key role in midfield for Brazil, was visibly disappointed. “We didn’t do enough. We have to take responsibility for this result. It hurts a lot, we will be remembered as the generation that did not win the world cup,” he told reporters.
Neymar, fighting back tears during his retirement announcement, said: “This is the end for me with the national team. I gave everything for Brazil. Thank you to the fans who supported me through the years.”
The result marks a historic night for Norwegian football and another chapter in the tournament’s growing list of surprises. Norway now prepares to face a formidable England side in the quarterfinals, while Brazil faces a period of reflection following an early exit that will raise questions about their preparation and squad depth under Carlo Ancelotti.
