Brazil’s dream of securing a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title came to a heartbreaking end after Norway claimed a 2-1 victory, inspired by a brilliant second-half brace from Erling Haaland at the Meadowlands on Sunday.
The Norwegian striker proved to be the difference-maker after the break. Haaland opened the scoring with a powerful header, outmuscling defender Gabriel Magalhães before finding the back of the net. He then doubled Norway’s advantage with a low-driven effort that slipped past Brazil goalkeeper Alisson Becker, giving Ståle Solbakken’s side firm control of the contest.
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Brazil had an excellent opportunity to take the lead in the first half after Matheus Cunha won a penalty. However, Bruno Guimarães failed to capitalize as Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland produced a crucial save to deny the midfielder from the spot.
Norway’s fortunes improved significantly after halftime following two tactical substitutions by head coach Ståle Solbakken, who introduced Andreas Schjelderup and Oscar Bobb in place of Alexander Sørloth and Antonio Nusa. The changes injected fresh energy into the Norwegian attack and helped create the openings that Haaland converted.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti responded by bringing on Endrick, Neymar and other attacking options, but the substitutions failed to produce the desired turnaround. Neymar managed to reduce the deficit with a penalty deep into stoppage time, but it proved too little, too late.
With the victory, Norway secured a place in the World Cup semi-finals, where they will face the winner of the England versus Mexico clash in Miami.
For Brazil, the defeat marks their earliest FIFA World Cup elimination in 36 years, ending another campaign in disappointment despite entering the tournament among the favourites.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
