Former Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic compared Norway's historic victory over Brazil to Sweden's memorable run at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, where they finished third. In a video shared by FOX Sports on X, Ibrahimovic said, "When the lion is hungry, he eats."
Norway Stuns Brazil in Round of 16
Erling Haaland scored twice in the closing stages as Norway defeated Brazil 2-1 at MetLife Stadium in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, securing their first-ever quarterfinal berth. Brazil dominated large spells and missed a first-half penalty through Bruno Guimaraes, while Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland made several crucial saves. Neymar converted a stoppage-time penalty for Brazil, whose tournament ended with a seventh straight World Cup knockout defeat to European opposition.
Ibrahimovic Draws Parallels to 1994 Sweden
"Listen, this Norway reminds me of Sweden, World Cup '94. And let's see if they can reach as far as Sweden did. Sweden came third place, but this story is a little bit similar and it's beautiful to see they continue to row this boat," Ibrahimovic said in the video shared by FOX Sports on X. He credited Norway's resilience and tactical discipline while questioning Brazil's display.
Criticism of Brazil and Praise for Solbakken
"And Brazil never convinced me, not since their first game, and the changes that Carlo did today didn't give results. The changes that Solbakken did gave results, and it seems like Norway was doing Joga Bonito while Brazil was doing Joga I don't know what," Ibrahimovic remarked. He added, "They were dancing before the win, and yeah, now the Vikings is through to the next round."
Haaland's Heroics
Ibrahimovic reserved special praise for Haaland, who scored twice. "We're enjoying Haaland. I said it before the game, player to watch. Will he go a game without a goal? Not yet, another two today," he added. Haaland's late brace proved decisive, propelling Norway into the quarterfinals for the first time in the nation's history.
