Brazil's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended in heartbreak as Norway produced one of the tournament's biggest upsets, defeating the five-time champions 2-1 in the Round of 16. The defeat not only sent Norway into the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in their history but also marked the end of Neymar's international career.

The 34-year-old Brazilian forward, who had announced before the tournament that it would likely be his final World Cup, confirmed his retirement from international football after the match. An emotional Neymar broke down in tears at the final whistle before being consoled by teammates following Brazil's earliest World Cup exit since 1990.

Erling Haaland proved to be the difference-maker for Norway, scoring both goals to secure a famous victory at MetLife Stadium. The Manchester City striker's brace also strengthened his bid for the tournament's Golden Boot, taking his tally to seven goals.

Brazil struggled to find rhythm throughout the contest and only managed a late consolation after Neymar converted a penalty in stoppage time. However, the goal was not enough to prevent the South American giants from crashing out of the competition.

Speaking after the match, a visibly emotional Neymar confirmed that his journey with the national team had come to an end.

"I tried, I tried. Now, it's over. I started here; I finished here," he told Brazilian broadcaster Globo.

The moment carried symbolic significance, as Neymar had made his senior Brazil debut at the same venue—then known as the New Meadowlands Stadium—against the United States in August 2010, scoring on his debut. He now retires as Brazil's all-time leading men's international scorer with 80 goals, surpassing Pelé's official tally.

Neymar also became only the second Brazilian male footballer after Pelé to score in four different FIFA World Cup tournaments. He finishes his international career with 130 appearances, second only to Cafu's 142 matches for Brazil.

Injuries, however, once again limited Neymar's impact on the biggest stage. A recurring right calf injury restricted him to just two appearances during the tournament. He featured briefly against Scotland in the group stage before coming off the bench against Norway in the Round of 16.

Despite entering the match late, Neymar remained involved until the end. The closing moments witnessed a heated exchange between the Brazilian forward and Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland before Neymar calmly converted his penalty. After scoring, he responded with a sarcastic smile toward the Norwegian goalkeeper, but the brief confrontation could not change Brazil's fate.

For Neymar, the World Cup remained the one major title that eluded his glittering career. In 2014, his campaign ended prematurely because of injury before Brazil's historic semifinal defeat to Germany. Belgium knocked Brazil out in the 2018 quarterfinals, while Croatia eliminated the Seleção on penalties in 2022 despite Neymar scoring in extra time. Norway's victory has now brought his international journey to a close without the coveted World Cup trophy.

Meanwhile, Norway celebrated a landmark achievement as Haaland's clinical performance carried the Scandinavian nation into uncharted territory. They will now face England in the quarterfinals.

England booked their place after defeating co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a dramatic Round of 16 encounter at the iconic Estadio Azteca. Jude Bellingham scored twice in quick succession during the first half before Julián Quiñones reduced the deficit for Mexico.

England's challenge became more difficult early in the second half when defender Jarell Quansah received a straight red card for a dangerous studs-up tackle, forcing his side to play with ten men.

Harry Kane restored England's two-goal advantage from the penalty spot before later conceding a penalty that Raúl Jiménez converted for Mexico. Despite relentless late pressure from the hosts, England held firm to secure victory and set up a quarterfinal clash against an inspired Norwegian side.

With Neymar's farewell and Norway's historic breakthrough, the Round of 16 delivered one of the most memorable days of the FIFA World Cup 2026, signalling the end of an era for Brazilian football while opening a new chapter for one of Europe's emerging footballing nations.

The result marked one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, with Norway advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history. They will now face England, who secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over hosts Mexico to book their place in the last eight.

At MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Norway produced a disciplined and clinical performance led by star striker Erling Haaland, who scored both goals to eliminate one of football’s traditional powerhouses. Brazil, despite enjoying significant possession and creating several opportunities, failed to convert key chances and paid the price against a resilient Norwegian side.

The match remained goalless at halftime, though Brazil had an excellent opportunity to take the lead in the 15th minute. Following a VAR review, the South American giants were awarded a penalty. However, midfielder Bruno Guimaraes saw his effort brilliantly saved by experienced Norwegian goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, who went on to make several crucial stops throughout the contest.

Nyland denied attempts from Gabriel Martinelli and Vinicius Junior as Norway held firm under sustained Brazilian pressure. The missed penalty proved costly as Norway grew into the game after the break.

The breakthrough arrived in the 72nd minute when Andreas Schjelderup delivered an inviting cross from the left flank and Haaland powered home a header to give Norway a 1-0 advantage. Brazil pushed forward in search of an equaliser but left themselves exposed at the back.

Deep into stoppage time, Haaland struck again. The Manchester City forward calmly beat his marker before slotting the ball through defender Danilo’s legs and into the net, effectively sealing Norway’s historic victory. The goals took Haaland’s tally in the tournament to seven, drawing him level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.

Neymar pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 100th minute, but the goal only reduced the deficit. Moments later, the final whistle confirmed Brazil’s earliest World Cup elimination since 1990.

The match also marked the end of an era for Brazilian football. Shortly after the defeat, Neymar announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished career with the national team.

“I gave everything I had. My journey started here and now it ends here. My chapter with Brazil is over,” the 34-year-old said after the match.

The symbolism was significant. Neymar made his Brazil debut at the same venue in 2010 against the United States and chose the same stadium to bid farewell to international football. He confirmed that he will continue playing club football and remains under contract with Brazilian side Santos FC.

Despite injury struggles in recent years, Neymar leaves behind an extraordinary international legacy. He represented Brazil in 130 matches, making him the country’s second-most capped player behind Cafu. His goal against Norway took his international tally to 80 goals, surpassing Pele’s record of 77.

The strike also saw Neymar equal another iconic milestone, becoming only the second Brazilian after Pele to score in four different FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Brazil’s elimination extended another unwanted trend. It was the sixth consecutive World Cup in which the Selecao were knocked out by a European nation, following defeats to France (2006), the Netherlands (2010), Germany (2014), Belgium (2018), Croatia (2022) and now Norway (2026).

Elsewhere, England advanced to a third successive World Cup quarter-final after overcoming Mexico 3-2 in a thrilling contest. Jude Bellingham scored twice in quick succession before Harry Kane added a penalty in the second half. England held on despite playing with ten men for more than 35 minutes following Jarell Quansah’s red card.

The quarter-final clash between Norway and England now promises to be one of the most intriguing matchups of the tournament, with Norway chasing another historic milestone and England seeking a return to the World Cup semi-finals.

United States President Donald Trump could play a prominent role during the FIFA World Cup 2026 final trophy presentation, with reports indicating that FIFA may permit him to personally hand over the trophy to the tournament winners if he chooses to do so.

The possibility has sparked discussion among football fans and observers because it would differ from the customary World Cup presentation procedure followed in previous editions of the tournament.

Traditional Trophy Protocol

Under standard FIFA World Cup protocol, the trophy is usually placed on a designated plinth near the presentation area after the final. Members of the winning team then receive the trophy before carrying it onto the celebration podium, where official photographs and victory celebrations take place.

However, sources familiar with the planning process suggest FIFA is unlikely to object if Trump decides to personally present the trophy and remain on stage during the celebrations.

While no official confirmation has been issued regarding the final ceremony format, the reports have fuelled speculation about a potentially unprecedented moment at football's biggest event.

Club World Cup Precedent

The discussion stems largely from Trump's appearance during the recent FIFA Club World Cup trophy presentation.

After the final, Trump handed the trophy to players of Chelsea FC and remained on stage as captain Reece James lifted the trophy alongside teammates.

The moment attracted widespread attention and led to questions about whether a similar role could be envisioned for the World Cup final next year.

Trump was unable to attend the United States men's national team's opening match against Paraguay due to scheduling commitments but is expected to be present at the World Cup final scheduled at MetLife Stadium on July 19.

Tunisia Makes Coaching Change

In a separate World Cup development, Tunisia has become the first team to change its head coach during the tournament.

Head coach Sabri Lamouchi was relieved of his duties following the team's 5-1 defeat against Sweden.

Reports indicate the decision was influenced not only by the heavy loss but also by concerns over internal team dynamics and dressing-room issues. Lamouchi's tenure lasted just five matches.

Former national team coach Mondher Kebaier is reportedly being considered as an interim replacement.

Tunisia still faces crucial group-stage fixtures against Japan and Netherlands as it attempts to remain competitive in the tournament.

Neymar Recovery Monitored

Meanwhile, concerns remain over the fitness of Brazilian star Neymar ahead of the latter stages of the competition.

According to reports, Brazil's medical staff are taking a cautious approach as the forward continues to recover from a Grade-2 calf injury suffered while playing for Santos FC in May.

The management is reportedly prioritising Neymar's availability for the knockout rounds rather than rushing him back during the group stage.

Focus on Knockout Stage

Neymar missed Brazil's opening match and is also expected to sit out the upcoming fixture against Haiti. While the 32-year-old has increased the intensity of his gym sessions, he has yet to resume full on-field training with the squad.

Brazilian officials believe a cautious recovery plan will reduce the risk of aggravating the injury and maximise the player's chances of contributing later in the tournament.

With major storylines emerging both on and off the field, attention now turns to the coming weeks as teams battle for qualification and organisers prepare for what could be one of the most closely watched FIFA World Cup finals in recent history.

Brazil and Croatia have officially announced their squads for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, bringing major headlines from both teams as star players return, veterans prepare for historic appearances, and injury setbacks shake Spain’s campaign plans.

The announcement has added fresh excitement ahead of the tournament, which will feature 48 teams and will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 16 cities starting from June 11.

Neymar makes long-awaited return to Brazil squad

Five-time world champions Brazil have recalled star forward Neymar Jr after a gap of nearly three years. The 34-year-old forward, who last featured for Brazil in 2023, has been named in the squad by head coach Carlo Ancelotti after a detailed fitness review.

Ancelotti confirmed during the squad announcement in Rio de Janeiro that Neymar’s recent performances and improved fitness levels made him eligible for selection. He added that the forward is now physically ready to compete at the highest level.

Neymar will be playing his fourth FIFA World Cup, having previously represented Brazil in 2014, 2018, and 2022. His return is being seen as a major boost for Brazil’s attacking lineup as they aim for their sixth World Cup title. Brazil have been placed in Group C, where they will begin their campaign against Morocco on June 13, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland.

Strong Brazilian squad with global stars

Brazil’s squad features several top European club players, including Alisson Becker, who returns after recovering from injury. Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr and Barcelona forward Raphinha will also lead Brazil’s attacking strength.

Young forward Endrick, just 19 years old, is also included, marking one of the rising talents expected to shine on the global stage. However, a notable omission from the squad is Chelsea striker Joao Pedro, who has been in excellent form in the Premier League this season. Brazil’s midfield includes experienced names such as Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes, and Lucas Paqueta, providing balance between defense and attack.

Croatia name experienced squad with Modric at the helm

Croatia have also announced their 26-member squad, with legendary midfielder Luka Modric once again leading the team. At 40 years of age, Modric is set to play his fifth World Cup, making him one of the most experienced players in tournament history.

Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic expressed confidence that Modric will recover from a recent facial injury in time for their opening match against England on June 17. If he plays, Modric could also reach the milestone of 200 international appearances. Croatia’s squad also includes experienced forward Ivan Perisic, who has scored in the last three World Cups, making him a crucial part of their attacking strategy. The team, which finished as runners-up in 2018 and secured third place in 2022, will also face Panama and Ghana in Group L.

Spain suffer major injury setbacks

Spain have been dealt a major blow with young midfielder Fermin Lopez ruled out of the World Cup due to a fracture in his right foot. The injury occurred during a La Liga match for Barcelona against Real Betis. Medical reports confirmed that Lopez suffered a fifth metatarsal fracture, requiring surgery and ruling him out of the tournament entirely. Lopez was part of Spain’s successful Euro 2024 squad and had also played a key role in their Olympic gold medal victory at Paris 2024. Adding to Spain’s concerns, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal will also miss the opening match due to fitness issues, raising further concerns over squad depth. Spain will begin their World Cup campaign on June 15 against Cape Verde in Atlanta.

Tournament expectations rise ahead of kickoff

With major teams announcing their squads, expectations are rising for the expanded 48-team World Cup format. The tournament will see more nations competing than ever before, increasing global attention and competitiveness. Brazil enter the tournament as one of the favorites, driven by a blend of experienced stars and young talent. Croatia, meanwhile, continue to rely on their golden generation led by Modric, while Spain must now regroup after key injuries. The early squad announcements from France and Belgium have already set the tone for what promises to be one of the most competitive World Cups in history. Football fans around the world are now eagerly waiting for the final preparations and warm-up matches before the global spectacle begins in June.