Erling Haaland scored two late goals, and Orjan Nyland saved a crucial penalty as Norway defeated Brazil 2-1 on July 7, 2026, at MetLife Stadium, advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals. This victory marks Norway's first appearance in the quarter-finals, eliminating the five-time champions at an early stage for the first time since 1990.
Match Highlights: Norway vs Brazil
Haaland's brace came in the final 11 minutes of the game, leveling him with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé on seven tournament goals. Brazil's Neymar managed to score from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time, but it was too late to change the outcome.
- Norway's Goals: Haaland (79', 90')
- Brazil's Goal: Neymar (90+10' pen)
- Key Saves: Nyland's penalty save from Guimaraes
Norway's goalkeeper, Nyland, played a pivotal role, not only saving the first-half penalty from Bruno Guimaraes but also making several critical saves throughout the match. His performance kept Norway in contention as they faced a persistent Brazilian attack.
Game Dynamics and Tactical Changes
Brazil started strong, winning a penalty early on after a foul on Matheus Cunha. However, Nyland’s excellent reflexes denied Guimaraes, keeping the scoreline intact. Norway's coach, Stale Solbakken, made strategic substitutions at halftime, bringing on Oscar Bobb and Andreas Schjelderup, which proved effective as they shifted the momentum.
