Erling Haaland inspired Norway to one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after scoring twice in a dramatic 2-1 victory over Brazil national football team, sending the Scandinavian nation into the quarter-finals for the first time in its history while ending Brazil’s campaign.
Gatekeepers News reports that Manchester City striker broke the deadlock in the 81st minute with a towering header from an Andreas Schjelderup cross before sealing the victory deep into stoppage time with a composed low finish. Brazil pulled one back through a late penalty converted by Neymar, but it was not enough to prevent the five-time world champions from crashing out of the tournament.
Brazil had opportunities to take control of the match earlier, but Bruno Guimarães saw his first-half penalty saved by goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, while Endrick also squandered a clear scoring chance after the break. Norway capitalised on Brazil’s missed opportunities with clinical finishing in the closing stages.
Norway coach Ståle Solbakken described the victory as the greatest moment in the country’s football history, praising his players’ resilience, unity and tactical discipline. Haaland also celebrated the result, calling it “one of the sickest days” Norway has ever experienced in football.
The result marks Brazil’s earliest World Cup elimination since 1990 and continues Norway’s remarkable run at the tournament. Norway will now face England national football team in the quarter-finals after England defeated Mexico 3-2.
