Haaland Fires Norway Past Brazil to Reach World Cup Quarterfinals
Norway held off a late Brazilian fightback to secure a 2–1 victory in a tense and eventful match, with Erling Haaland once again proving decisive.
The game began with early tactical adjustments in the 14th minute involving Bruno Guimarães, as both teams looked to settle into rhythm. After halftime, a wave of substitutions followed in the 46th minute, with Norway introducing Oscar Bobb and Alexander Sørloth, while Andreas Schjelderup and Antonio Nusa also entered to increase attacking threat.
Further changes came as both sides pushed for control in midfield. Endrick replaced Matheus Cunha in the 58th minute, while Fredrik Aursnes came on for Julian Ryerson at 63 minutes. Brazil then responded in the 67th minute with attacking substitutions, bringing on Neymar Jr and Gabriel Martinelli in search of a breakthrough.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 79th minute when Erling Haaland finished a move involving Andreas Schjelderup to give Norway a 1–0 lead. The goal shifted momentum firmly toward the Norwegians.
In the 90th minute, Haaland struck again to double the advantage to 2–0, putting Norway in control deep into stoppage time.
However, Brazil refused to give up, and in the dying moments Neymar Jr calmly converted a penalty to reduce the deficit to 2–1 and set up a tense finish.
Despite the late pressure, Norway managed to hold on and secure the victory, with Haaland’s brace proving decisive once again.
