By Izuchukwu Okosi
Five-time world champions Brazil suffered a humiliating 2-1 defeat against Norway Sunday night to crash out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Erling Haaland scored twice in the last ten minutes of the game to secure Norway’s place in the quarterfinals.
The Norwegians had a goal put away by Patrick Berg early in the game disallowed for offside.
Brazil then had a penalty taken by Bruno Guimarares saved by the impressive Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland.
The penalty loss was the first time since 1986 that Brazil failed to score a penalty when Zico was denied from 12 yards.
Norway had more ball possessions, pass completions and shots at goal that showed their intents and that paid dividends in the 79th minute as Haaland leapt high to head home a delightful cross.
The Manchester City striker then doubled the goals and took his 2026 World Cup tally to 7 goals at par with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the 90th minute with a low shot that found the bottom right corner.
Second half substitute Neymar scored a consolation for Brazil from the penalty spot but the Samba boys had too little a time to fight back for an equaliser.
Norway will face the winner of the England versus Mexico game that kicks off at 1am Nigerian time.
