The FIFA World Cup 2026 pre-quarterfinal round produced its biggest shock yet, as Norway stunned five-time champions Brazil 2-1 to reach the quarterfinal for the first time in the country's history. The hero of the win was Norway's star striker Erling Haaland, who struck twice, in the 79th and 90th minutes, to hand his side a historic victory. Brazil's only goal came from Neymar Junior, who converted a penalty in injury time, but by then the match was already beyond reach, and no other Brazilian player found the net.
A goalless first half gave way to a dramatic second
The high-stakes clash between Brazil and Norway was played at a stadium in New Jersey, in the United States. The first half ended goalless, even though both sides created chances to break the deadlock. The real drama unfolded in the second half, when Erling Haaland rose for a superb header in the 79th minute to put Norway 1-0 ahead. Just eleven minutes later, in the 90th minute, Haaland struck again to make it 2-0. With two goals separating the sides so late in the game, a Brazilian comeback became almost impossible.
A missed penalty and a heroic goalkeeper turned the tide
Brazil did have a golden chance to seize control in the first half. Norway's Kristoffer Ajer fouled Brazil's Matheus Cunha, and after a video review, Brazil were awarded a penalty. However, Brazil's Bruno Guimaraes saw his spot kick brilliantly saved by Norway's experienced goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland. Nyland did not stop there, he went on to deny several more Brazilian attempts through the match and ended up playing the single biggest role in securing his team's win.
Endrick's poor first touch and Haaland's brace sealed Norway's win
In the second half, Brazil brought on young forward Endrick in search of an equaliser. Remarkably, just 52 seconds after coming on, Endrick found himself with a clear sight of goal, but a poor first touch on the ball meant he could not convert the chance. Norway continued to press from there, and it was ultimately Haaland's two goals that sealed the result. With this brace, Erling Haaland has now scored a total of seven goals at the FIFA World Cup 2026, cementing his place among the tournament's most dangerous strikers. The defeat ends Brazil's campaign in the tournament, while Norway now prepares for its first-ever appearance in the quarterfinal.
