Haaland knocks Brazil out as Norway reach quarters

Erling Haaland produced a stunning late double as Norway pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Brazil 2-1 on Sunday to reach the quarterfinals and end the five-time champions’ bid for a record-extending sixth title.

The towering striker transformed a tense Round of 16 contest at MetLife Stadium with two goals in the closing stages, sending Norway into the last eight for the first time in decades and cementing one of the nation’s greatest football triumphs.
For much of the match, Brazil matched Norway stride for stride and looked capable of forcing extra time. But Haaland once again proved the difference. He broke the deadlock in the 79th minute, rising above Brazil’s defence to power home a header and stun the South Americans.

As Brazil pushed desperately for an equaliser, Norway struck again on the counterattack. Haaland raced onto a through ball and fired an emphatic finish in stoppage time to put the result beyond doubt. Brazil managed a late consolation goal, but it arrived too late to prevent another painful World Cup exit.

Norway’s remarkable run continues after earlier victories over Ivory Coast in the Round of 32 and now one of world football’s traditional giants. Organised in defence and inspired by Haaland’s relentless goalscoring form, the Scandinavians have emerged as one of the tournament’s surprise contenders.

For Brazil, the defeat extends a long wait for a first World Cup title since 2002. Despite arriving in North America among the favourites and overcoming Japan in the previous round, the Seleção were unable to contain Haaland when it mattered most.

The Manchester City striker further enhanced his status as one of the stars of the tournament with another match-winning display. His late brace secured Norway’s place in the quarterfinals, where they will meet the winner of the Round of 16 clash between Mexico and England.

Norway’s historic victory is set to rank among the finest moments in the country’s football history, while Brazil’s shock elimination is likely to prompt fresh questions over a squad that entered the tournament with genuine title ambitions.
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