EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey — Erling Haaland produced a sensational late double as Norway shocked five-time world champion Brazil, 2-1, to book its first-ever FIFA World Cup quarterfinal berth in a historic Round of 16 victory on Sunday night (Monday in the Philippines) at MetLife Stadium.
The Manchester City striker broke the deadlock in the 79th minute before adding another in the 90th, capping a memorable performance that eliminated one of football’s traditional powerhouses and delivered the biggest World Cup victory in Norwegian football history.
Brazil squandered a golden opportunity to seize the lead in the opening half after Matheus Cunha was fouled inside the penalty area, but Bruno Guimarães failed to convert as Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland made a crucial penalty save.
Nyland continued his outstanding performance by denying attempts from Gabriel Martinelli and Vinicius Junior, frustrating Brazil’s attack throughout the match.
Norway also threatened before halftime, with Martin Odegaard forcing Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker into a save as both teams went into the break scoreless.
The breakthrough came in the 79th minute when Andreas Schjelderup floated a precise cross into the penalty area, allowing Haaland to outjump defender Gabriel and power a header beyond Alisson.
Norway sealed the famous victory just before full time after Schjelderup again turned provider. Haaland collected the pass outside the box before firing a low strike into the bottom corner for his second goal of the night.
Brazil scored a consolation goal deep into stoppage time when Neymar converted from the penalty spot. The goal proved to be the final international goal of the Santos FC star, who announced his retirement from Brazil’s national team following the defeat.
In another Round of 16 match, England survived a determined challenge from co-host Mexico to secure a 3-2 victory at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City and advance to the quarterfinals.
Jude Bellingham struck twice early to hand England a commanding lead before Julian Quiñones pulled one back for Mexico late in the first half.
England played with 10 men after defender Jarell Quansah was sent off with a red card, but captain Harry Kane converted a penalty to restore a two-goal advantage. Raul Jimenez later scored for Mexico, but the hosts fell short of completing the comeback./PN
