Erling Haaland produced a sensational late brace as Norway stunned five-time FIFA World Cup champions Brazil with a memorable victory to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in the nation’s history.
Brazil missed a golden opportunity to take control of the match in the first half when Bruno Guimarães failed to convert from the penalty spot. The miss proved costly as Norway capitalised late in the game through their star striker.
After a relatively quiet performance, Haaland broke the deadlock in the 79th minute. The Manchester City forward outpaced defender Gabriel to meet an excellent cross from Andreas Schjelderup, calmly finishing to give Norway a crucial lead.
Haaland then wrapped up Norway’s historic win in the 90th minute with a powerful low strike from outside the penalty area, leaving Brazil with little chance of mounting a comeback.
Brazil were awarded a second penalty deep into stoppage time after referee Ismail Elfath ruled that Leo Østigård had fouled Casemiro with an elbow inside the box. Neymar converted the spot-kick, but the late goal was nothing more than a consolation.
The defeat marks Brazil’s earliest FIFA World Cup exit since 1990, as the South American giants fail to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in more than three decades.
Norway will now face either England or co-hosts Mexico in the quarter-finals, with the two sides set to meet in their Round of 16 clash in Mexico City.