Brazil’s 2026 World Cup journey came to an unexpected end on Sunday as the Selecao suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16.
Erling Haaland was the hero, scoring twice in the final quarter-hour to send the Scandinavians into the quarterfinals and complete one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.
The first half was evenly contested, with Brazil creating the better chances but failing to find the breakthrough, while Norway remained compact defensively to go into the break level at 0-0.
After halftime, Norway continued to control possession before Haaland broke the deadlock with a header in the 79th minute.
As Brazil pushed for an equalizer, the Manchester City striker struck again on the counterattack to make it 2-0.
Neymar pulled one back from the penalty spot in stoppage time, but it was too late to prevent Brazil’s elimination.
Norway’s clinical finishing secured a famous quarterfinal berth, while Brazil paid the price for its lack of efficiency in front of goal.
