Brazil Crash Out as Haaland Fires Norway into World Cup Quarter-finals

Norway pulled off one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Brazil 2-1 in their Round of 16 clash on Sunday night, thanks to a brilliant late brace from Erling Haaland.

Brazil appeared to control large parts of the contest despite seeing less of the ball, but they failed to make their chances count.

The South Americans had a golden opportunity to take an early lead in the 14th minute after being awarded a penalty.

However, Bruno Guimarães was denied from the spot by Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, whose save proved to be a turning point in the match.

Norway continued to dominate possession and eventually found the breakthrough in the 79th minute. Antonio Nusa's replacement, Andreas Schjelderup, delivered a precise pass to Haaland, who calmly finished to put his side ahead.

The Scandinavian side doubled their advantage in the 90th minute when Schjelderup once again set up Haaland, with the Manchester City striker making no mistake to complete his brace and leave Brazil on the brink of elimination.

Brazil managed to reduce the deficit deep into stoppage time after VAR awarded them another penalty following a foul by Leo Østigård. Neymar stepped up and converted in the 100th minute, but there was no time left for a comeback.

Norway finished with 67 percent possession and completed over 600 passes in an impressive team display. Haaland's clinical finishing and Nyland's crucial penalty save ensured the Norwegians secured a famous victory to book their place in the World Cup quarter-finals, while five-time champions Brazil suffered an early exit from the tournament.