Norway striker Erling Haaland has described his country’s stunning 2-1 victory over Brazil in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a dream he never believed could become reality.
The 25-year-old scored both goals on Sunday to inspire Norway to their first-ever FIFA World Cup quarter-final, ending Brazil’s campaign in one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.
“I couldn’t quite believe it because I never dreamed of this in my life,” Mr Haaland said after the match.
“I dreamed of playing in the World Cup with Norway and helping them qualify for the World Cup, but I never expected to beat Brazil. Let’s be honest, I thought it wasn’t possible, but I guess I was wrong.”
Historic achievement
The victory extends Norway’s impressive unbeaten record against Brazil to five matches, comprising three wins and two draws.
The result also sends Norway into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time, where they will face England in Miami on July 11 for a place in the semi-finals.
Golden boot race
Mr Haaland’s two goals took his tally at the tournament to seven, drawing him level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé in the race for the Golden Boot.
The prolific forward has also scored 62 goals in 54 appearances for Norway during his international career.
“It’s incredible to win,” Mr Haaland said.
“It’s a bit surreal. As a footballer, you want to play in the World Cup and perform well, but to score seven goals for Norway at the World Cup is quite special.
“It’s unreal, and I don’t have the words. It’s difficult to describe what I’m feeling because it all seems unreal. I need to pinch myself because this is huge.”
Brazil’s early exit
The defeat marked Brazil’s earliest World Cup elimination since losing to arch-rivals Argentina in the Round of 16 at the 1990 tournament, ending another disappointing campaign for the five-time world champions.
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