Erling Haaland scored twice in the closing stages as Norway stunned five-time champions Brazil 2-1, to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history.
The Manchester City striker broke the deadlock in the 79th minute, rising above Brazil’s defence to head from Andreas Schjelderup’s cross before sealing victory 11 minutes later with a powerful long-range strike. Neymar converted a penalty deep into stoppage time, but it proved only a consolation for Brazil.
Brazil had the opportunity to take an early lead after Kristoffer Ajer fouled Matheus Cunha in the 13th minute, but Bruno Guimaraes saw his penalty saved by goalkeeper, Orjan Nyland.
Norway coach, Ståle Solbakken changed the game after halftime by introducing Andreas Schjelderup and Oscar Bobb, with Schjelderup providing both assists for Haaland’s goals.
Haaland’s brace took his tournament tally to seven goals, drawing him level with Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot.
The defeat marked Brazil’s earliest World Cup exit since 1990, while Norway advanced to a quarter-final clash against either England or Mexico.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
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