Brazil vs Norway Clash: Unbeaten Norway Aims to Make History

June 21, Kathmandu – Five-time World Cup champions Brazil will face Norway in the Round of 16 at FIFA World Cup 2026. In this highly anticipated match to qualify for the quarterfinals, Brazil, who have not won a title in 24 years, seek to continue their quest under new coach Carlo Ancelotti, while Norway aims to add another historic achievement to their World Cup journey. An intriguing aspect of this game is that Norway has never lost to Brazil in any of their previous encounters. Norway will look to maintain this record and create a new milestone by reaching the quarterfinals for the first time in their World Cup history. For Brazil, Vinicius Junior will be the key attacking weapon, while Norway hopes for another decisive performance from their star forward Erling Haaland. The direct duel between Haaland and Brazil’s defender Gabriel Magalhães is another major highlight of the match.

Brazil’s path so far included a 1-1 draw against Morocco in the group stage, followed by 3-0 victories over Haiti and Scotland, allowing them to top the group and qualify for the knockout stage. In the Round of 32, Brazil faced a tough challenge against Japan but secured a thrilling 2-1 victory thanks to an injury-time goal by Gabriel Martinelli, advancing to the Round of 16. On the other hand, Norway has played aggressive football throughout the competition, scoring a total of 10 goals in four matches. Although they rested several key players against France in their last group match and suffered a 4-1 defeat, Norway bounced back to defeat Ivory Coast 2-1 in the Round of 32, with Antonio Nusa scoring a brilliant goal and Erling Haaland netting the decisive goal with four minutes remaining.

In head-to-head meetings, Brazil and Norway have played four international matches. Brazil has yet to win any game against Norway, who have won twice and drawn twice. At the FIFA World Cup, Norway defeated Brazil 2-1 in 1998. Additionally, they drew 1-1 in a friendly match in 1988, Norway won 4-2 in 1997, and another 1-1 draw occurred in 2006. Historically, Norway appears mentally stronger in these encounters, while Brazil aims to secure their first victory in this rivalry.

Team news: Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti is concerned about the injury to Lucas Paquetá, who was hurt against Japan and is expected to miss the remainder of the World Cup. Rafinha is also doubtful. Young star Endrick, who played the second half against Japan, may get a start in this game. Norway coach Ståle Solbakken has not revealed his probable lineup yet, with no reports so far of new injuries or suspensions in the squad. Vinicius Junior has been in excellent form, scoring in all three group matches. Haaland has already scored five goals in the tournament; he has 60 goals in 53 matches for Norway and 112 goals in 132 Premier League games. Captain Martin Ødegaard is expected to provide strong support to Haaland.

Probable Starting XI:
Brazil: Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, Santos; Bruno Guimarães, Casemiro, Endrick; Raphinha, Matheus Cunha, Vinicius Junior.
Norway: Ørjan Nyland; Markus Pedersen, Kristoffer Ajer, Heggheim, Moller Wolfe; Martin Ødegaard, Berge, Berg; Alexander Sørloth, Erling Haaland, Antonio Nusa.

Match: Brazil vs Norway, Round of 16
Date and Time: June 22, 1:45 AM
Venue: New York, New Jersey Stadium
Live Broadcast: Himalaya Sports