Haaland's double sends Brazil packing
Erling Haaland scored a second-half brace to propel Norway to a historic 2-1 victory over five-time champions Brazil at MetLife Stadium, securing the Scandinavian nation's first-ever FIFA World Cup quarter-final berth. The win ended a 28-year wait for Norwegian football fans, who erupted in the famous 'Viking Row' celebration after the final whistle.
Viking Row echoes after historic win
Thousands of Norwegian supporters moved in perfect synchronisation, imitating the rowing of a traditional Viking ship, as Haaland stood at the front beating a drum and leading the chants of 'Ro!' The celebration has become a defining image of Norway's remarkable tournament run. Captain Martin Odegaard had led the celebration after the Round of 32 victory, but Haaland was handed the honour following his match-winning heroics.
The Manchester City forward later posted on X a photograph of himself with the caption 'Well well well' followed by a smiling emoji, and later added another post: 'Worth the 28-year wait!'
Nyland heroics keep Norway alive
Norway produced a disciplined and clinical performance to stun the tournament favourites. Brazil dominated much of the contest and earned a penalty after Kristoffer Ajer fouled Matheus Cunha. However, goalkeeper Orjan Nyland brilliantly denied Bruno Guimaraes from the spot to keep the scores level. Carlo Ancelotti's side continued to press after the break, but Nyland repeatedly frustrated the Brazilian attack.
Substitute Andreas Schjelderup changed the momentum after coming on and delivered a pinpoint cross in the 79th minute for Haaland to head Norway in front. Moments later, Haaland struck again, calmly firing a left-footed finish beyond Alisson Becker to double the advantage. Neymar converted a stoppage-time penalty after Leo Ostigard fouled Casemiro, but it proved only a consolation as Brazil crashed out.
Historic unbeaten run and Golden Boot race
The victory extended Norway's unbeaten record against Brazil to five matches. Stale Solbakken's side will face either Mexico or England in the quarter-finals. Haaland's two goals took him to seven for the tournament, drawing level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.
