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.