Tens of thousands of Norwegians flooded the streets of Oslo in the early hours, gathering outside the royal palace where Crown Prince Haakon, wearing a Norway scarf, greeted them. The cause? A stunning 2-1 victory over Brazil in the World Cup last-16 that sent Norway to the quarter-finals for the first time in history.
Erling Haaland scored twice late in the game at the New York New Jersey Stadium to secure the win. Norway manager Ståle Solbakken called it “the greatest day in Norwegian football history,” while Haaland described it as “one of the sickest days ever in Norwegian history.” Brazil took the lead through a Neymar penalty in added time, but Haaland's double turned the match. Bruno Guimarães had earlier missed a first-half penalty for Brazil, saved by the Norwegian goalkeeper.
“Norway reached their first World Cup quarter-final by beating Brazil 2-1, with Erling Haaland scoring twice.”
This is Norway's first ever World Cup quarter-final. The country has produced world-class players before, but never a team that could beat a five-time champion on the biggest stage. Haaland, already a global star at Manchester City, has been the catalyst for this run. His two goals against Brazil showcased his lethal finishing and ability to decide tight matches.
For UK readers, this result matters because England will face Norway in the quarter-finals. England advanced by beating co-hosts Mexico in a thriller. The match-up will be a test of England's defence against Haaland, who has scored 10 goals in the tournament so far. Norwegian fans celebrated wildly, but their team also picked up an injury worry, with an unnamed player doubtful for the England clash.
Q: How did Norway beat Brazil? Norway came from behind after Neymar's penalty to win 2-1 thanks to two late goals from Erling Haaland. Manager Ståle Solbakken made key half-time substitutions, changing his wingers to increase possession in dangerous areas.
Q: What did Haaland say after the match? Haaland called the victory “one of the sickest days ever in Norwegian history” and said he wished he could join the celebrations on the streets of Oslo. He urged all of Norway to enjoy the moment.
Q: Who will Norway play next? Norway will face England in the World Cup quarter-finals. England qualified by beating Mexico in the round of 16. The match is expected to be a tough test, with Haaland aiming to continue his goalscoring run.