Erling Haaland produced a devastating late double to dump Brazil out of the World Cup at the last-16 stage, firing Norway to a historic 2-1 win in New Jersey. The Manchester City striker broke the deadlock in the 79th minute with a towering header and added a stunning long-range drive to set up a quarter-final against either England or Mexico. Although Neymar pulled one back from the penalty spot deep into added time, it was mere consolation as the five-time champions were left shell-shocked.
Haaland's Match-Winning Display
Haaland was kept relatively quiet for large periods but showed his world-class quality when it mattered most. His first goal saw him rise above Arsenal defender Gabriel to power home Andreas Schjelderup's cross, leaving Alisson with no chance. The second was a trademark strike from distance, drilled low into the corner, leaving the Liverpool goalkeeper rooted to the spot. The goals took Haaland's tournament tally to seven, level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot race, and extended his extraordinary run of scoring in 14 consecutive competitive internationals for Norway.
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville, on punditry duty, was scathing of Gabriel's role in the opener.
"Haaland spooked Gabriel, maybe. I'm fuming with Gabriel from a personal point of view. He knows that forward better than anyone: for him to stay five yards off him and go for a straight race on a header, it's crazy from Gabriel. Block his run, get tight to him. But he's the best at that Haaland. Once he runs at you and gets a run on you, you're dead,"Neville said.
Brazil's Wasteful Finishing
Brazil had only themselves to blame for not putting the game to bed earlier. Bruno Guimaraes had the chance to give the Seleção the lead from the penalty spot in the 14th minute after a foul on Vinicius Jr, but his stuttered run-up was read by Orjan Nyland, who saved comfortably. Vinicius Jr was then denied by Nyland at the near post, and substitute Endrick poked wide when clean through on goal. The Sevilla goalkeeper also produced a miraculous stop to prevent a Kristoffer Ajer own goal shortly after Haaland's opener.
What Next for Brazil and Norway?
Under Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil were expected to challenge for the trophy, but this early exit will raise serious questions. With Neymar making only his second appearance from the bench, the team lacked cutting edge and composure in key moments. For Norway, this is uncharted territory — their first ever World Cup quarter-final — and with Haaland in this form, they will believe anything is possible. They now await the conclusion of the weather-delayed clash between England and Mexico.
Key Takeaways
- Erling Haaland once again proved he can deliver on the biggest stage, scoring twice to send Norway into the quarter-finals.
- Brazil's profligacy in front of goal, including a missed penalty, cost them dearly and continues their recent trend of underperformance at major tournaments.
- Orjan Nyland produced a string of crucial saves that kept Norway in the game and ultimately set the platform for Haaland's heroics.
- Norway's record-breaking run under Stale Solbakken now includes a first knockout victory at a World Cup, and they will be confident against either England or Mexico.
Quick Facts
Result: Brazil 1-2 Norway
Goalscorers: Haaland 79', 90'; Neymar 90+10' (pen)
Venue: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
Haaland's World Cup goals: 7 (joint-top)
Consecutive internationals with a goal: 14
Norway's previous best: Round of 16 (1998)