Haaland double sends Norway past Brazil into World Cup quarterfinals

Norway's men's football team defeated Brazil 2-1 (0-0) in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup on Sunday, reaching the quarterfinals for the first time in history. The victory was powered by Erling Haaland, who netted two goals in the last 11 minutes of regulation time.

Brazil had a chance to take the lead in the first half when Matheus Cunha was fouled in the penalty area. However, Bruno Guimarães' spot kick was saved by Norwegian goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland in the 14th minute. It was Brazil's first missed penalty in a World Cup match since 1986. Nyland also denied Vinícius Júnior late in the first half.

In the second half, Brazil's attack improved after Endrick came on, with chances for Endrick and Rayan Rocha, but Nyland and the woodwork kept Norway level. Substitute Neymar also failed to break the deadlock.

In the 79th minute, Andreas Schjelderup crossed from the left, and Haaland won an aerial duel to head the ball home. In the 90th minute, Haaland received a pass from Schjelderup and unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box to make it 2-0. In stoppage time, Neymar converted a penalty after Leo Østigård's foul, but Brazil could not find an equalizer.

Haaland now has seven goals in the tournament, tied with Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi. Norway will face either England or Mexico in the quarterfinals. In a historic coincidence, Norway also beat Brazil 2-1 in the 1998 World Cup group stage.