Erling Haaland vs Gabriel: Premier League rivalry takes world stage
Norway and Brazil meet in the World Cup last 16, bringing the intense personal feud between Erling Haaland and Gabriel into the global spotlight.
One of the Premier League's most gripping personal feuds goes global on Sunday when Brazil face Norway in the World Cup last 16 at New York New Jersey Stadium. Manchester City striker Erling Haaland comes up against Arsenal defender Gabriel, who represents Brazil.
The rivalry has been simmering for months. In September 2024, Haaland threw the ball forcefully at Gabriel's head after a late equaliser, later telling Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta to "stay humble". Gabriel retaliated in February 2025 by shouting in Haaland's face after scoring in Arsenal's 5-1 win. In April, Haaland scored the winner and sang Flo Rida's "Good Feeling" into a TV camera, while Gabriel escaped a red card for a headbutt attempt. After Arsenal won the title in May, Gabriel posted a trophy photo with the same song.
Former England striker Chris Sutton told BBC Sport: "This is the standout personal duel of the World Cup so far... it will have a huge bearing on the outcome." Alan Shearer added: "That will be a great battle because there is definitely a bit of niggle there."
A statistical quirk: Brazil have never beaten Norway in four attempts. Haaland has five World Cup goals, level with Harry Kane, behind Kylian Mbappe (6) and Lionel Messi (7). Against Gabriel at club level, Haaland has scored six times in 11 games, with Manchester City winning five, Arsenal two, and four draws.
Brazil are managed by Carlo Ancelotti, while Norway also boast Martin Odegaard. Both teams are aiming for a quarter-final spot. Sutton believes the Haaland-Gabriel confrontation could decide the match.
