Despite Brazil entering the match as favorites, a hard-working Norway team led by Erling Haaland did enough to get past the South American giants. With two goals from the Manchester City star, Norway continues their historic World Cup run.
The first big moment of the day came just three minutes into the match. Patrick Berg fired a shot into the top-right corner from the edge of the box past Allison. Alexander Sorloth mistimed his run before his cross into the area, ruling out the goal for an offside in the build-up.
With momentum shifting back and forth throughout the first half, Brazil were given their first real chance of the match. Bruno Guimaraes and Gabriel Martinelli linked up well, with the latter switching play to Cunha. As the Brazilian striker gathered the ball, he was taken out by Kristoffer Ajer.
Following a VAR check, the referee decided there was enough contact and awarded a penalty to Brazil. Vinicius Jr. held the ball as the referee sorted everything out, but ultimately gave the ball to Guimaraes. The Newcastle midfielder stuttered in his run-up, failed to strike the ball well, and saw his attempt saved by the Norwegian goalkeeper, Orjan Nyland.
Brazil had the better opportunities in the first half and missed three big chances in the opening 45 minutes. Despite having just 35% possession in the opening period, Brazil still seemed to be the more likely team to score. However, Norway nearly opened the scoring at the end of the half. Erling Haaland pushed through a double challenge by Marquinhos and Gabriel, with the ball falling nicely for Martin Odegaard. The Norway captain had a clear chance in front of the net, but it was not enough to get past Allison.
The first big chance of the second half came just moments after Endrick’s arrival on the field. Vini Jr. took the ball down the left flank with pace and played a wonderful outside-of-the-boot pass to Endrick, who was through on the goal. All he needed to do was place the ball past the keeper, but his chipped effort was wide.
Despite Brazil’s efforts, Norway scored the opening goal in the 79th minute, thanks to Erling Haaland. Norway’s historic goal scorer jumped above Gabriel and powered a fantastic header past Alisson. Andreas Schjelderup put in a superb cross to Haaland, setting him up with a chance he could not miss.
With Brazil pushing forward to find an equalizer, Norway found yet another big moment. Set up by Schjelderup again, Haaland needed just one touch to set himself before hitting a low-driven strike into the bottom corner from just outside the box.
Brazil got a consolation goal in the final minute, as Norway substitute Leo Ostigard caught Casemiro with his elbow in an aerial challenge. Neymar Jr. scored the penalty past Nyland and had some choice words for the Norway keeper afterwards.
Following a monumental victory, Norway will now face England or Mexico on July 11 in Miami.
