Haaland's Brace Sends Norway Into First-Ever World Cup Quarterfinal

Erling Haaland scored twice in the second half to give Norway a 2-1 victory over Brazil in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on July 5, sending the Norwegians into the quarterfinals for the first time in their history. The match was played at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, before a sold-out crowd.

Norway's goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland proved decisive early, saving a penalty from Bruno Guimarães in the 14th minute to keep the score level. The decision to hand Guimarães - rather than four-goal tournament forward Vinícius Júnior - responsibility from the spot drew scrutiny, and the miss proved costly to Brazil's ambitions. Nyland also denied a dangerous first-half cross from Gabriel Martinelli, preserving a goalless draw at the interval. waterpolo odds

Haaland broke the deadlock in the 79th minute, losing his marker in the penalty area to meet a low cross with a header that beat goalkeeper Alisson. He added a second in the 90th minute, working the ball onto his left foot just outside the box and driving a low finish to Alisson's right. The goals brought his tournament total to seven, level with France's Kylian Mbappé in the race for the Golden Boot. Brazil were awarded a late penalty, which Neymar converted, but the goal served only as consolation. Norway held on for a result that ends the five-time world champion's involvement in the tournament.

The victory marks a significant moment for Norwegian football. This is Norway's first World Cup appearance in 28 years, and they have now eliminated Brazil to reach the last eight. Norway will advance to the quarterfinals, where they will continue their deepest-ever run at the tournament.