Football: Norway Stun Brazil 2–1 to Reach FIFA World Cup Quarter Finals as Haaland's Brace Ends Brazil's Campaign

Norway produced one of the biggest upsets of the ongoing FIFA World Cup by defeating five time champions Brazil 2–1 in their Round of 16 clash on Sunday, 5 July 2026, booking a historic place in the quarter finals for the first time.

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland was the hero for Norway, scoring twice in the second half to send the Scandinavian nation into the last eight. Haaland opened the scoring in the 79th minute with a powerful header before adding a second goal near the end of normal time to put the result beyond doubt.

Brazil pulled one goal back deep into stoppage time through Neymar, who converted a penalty after coming on as a substitute. However, the late goal proved to be nothing more than a consolation as Norway held on to secure a famous victory. Earlier in the match, Brazil had also missed a first half penalty when Bruno Guimarães was denied by Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland.

The defeat brings Brazil's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign to an end, while Norway advances to the quarter finals with renewed confidence after one of the most memorable victories in the country's football history.

The match also fuelled speculation about the international future of Neymar. At 34 years old, this could prove to be his final FIFA World Cup appearance. However, neither the player nor the Brazilian Football Confederation has announced any decision regarding his international future, leaving open the possibility that he could return if selected for a future tournament.

Norway will now face the winner of the England versus Mexico Round of 16 match as they continue their remarkable World Cup journey.