World Cup shocker: Haaland’s brace sends Brazil crashing out

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Norway produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a clinical second-half performance inspired by Erling Haaland secured a 2-1 victory over Brazil, sending the five-time world champions crashing out in the Round of 16.

Brazil dominated long spells of the encounter at the New York New Jersey Stadium but were repeatedly denied by Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, whose impressive saves frustrated the South American side throughout the match. Brazil’s best opportunity came early in the first half when Bruno Guimarães saw his penalty saved after a VAR review awarded his side a spot kick.

The missed penalty proved costly as Norway grew into the contest after the break.

Haaland finally broke the deadlock in the 79th minute, rising above the Brazilian defence to power home a close-range header from Andreas Schjelderup’s lofted delivery and give the Scandinavian side a deserved lead.

Brazil pushed forward in search of an equaliser, with Vinícius Júnior, Endrick and Casemiro all threatening, but Norway remained disciplined at the back and continued to pose a danger on the counterattack.

Deep into stoppage time, Schjelderup again turned provider, slipping a precise pass to Haaland on the edge of the penalty area. The Manchester City striker calmly fired into the bottom-right corner to complete his brace and seal a memorable victory for Norway.

Neymar scored for Brazil from the penalty sport on added time to make it 2-1 but the goal was not enough as Norway progressed to the quarter-finals.