Norway’s national football team has advanced in the 2026 World Cup following a victory over Brazil on July 5, 2026, marking a significant shift in the nation’s sporting trajectory. Erling Braut Haaland, the team’s star striker, described the win as “unreal” and a moment that will fundamentally change the perception of Norwegian football, according to an interview with Paolo Tomaselli of Corriere della Sera.
How Norway Overcame the Odds Against Brazil
The victory in East Rutherford, New Jersey, ended a 28-year wait for Norway to participate in a World Cup. According to Haaland, the team entered the match with a distinct psychological advantage: the pressure rested entirely on Brazil, a team expected by the global public to win. While a massive global audience watched Brazil with the expectation of a victory, Norway’s squad of millions of people focused on executing their own tactical plan, Haaland told Corriere della Sera.
The Norwegian team maintained possession and controlled the midfield, a performance Haaland rated an 8 or 9 out of 10. He credited the collective effort of the entire squad, including goalkeeper Nyland, for reaching this level of play. The match result has drawn comparisons to historic sporting upsets, with the date of the win—July 5—coinciding with the 44th anniversary of Paolo Rossi’s famous performance for Italy against Brazil in the 1982 World Cup.
The Role of Tactical Discipline and Leadership
Norway’s success under manager Ståle Solbakken follows a period of frustration, including missing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and the European Championships. The team’s current form, characterized by an unbeaten qualifying campaign that included two victories over Italy, has fostered a new level of confidence.
Haaland noted that the team’s ability to “impose our game” is a sign of newfound maturity. Captain Martin Odegaard played a central role in the team’s post-match celebration, leading the squad in the “Viking Row” ritual in front of the Norwegian supporters. Haaland described the gesture as a defining moment for the group, emphasizing that the team has moved beyond the belief that such achievements were impossible.
Erling Haaland’s performance against Brazil has placed him alongside Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé in the ongoing 2026 World Cup top scorers’ rankings, keeping the race for the Golden Boot highly competitive.
What Comes Next for Norway?
Norway is now set to face England in the next round of the tournament. When asked about the upcoming match against the nation where he was born and currently plays his club football, Haaland remained focused on the immediate aftermath of the Brazil game. He stated that the team’s primary goal is to “enjoy what we have realized” before shifting focus to the next opponent.
The squad’s progress has received high-level recognition, with the Norwegian Prince and Princess visiting the locker room following the win to congratulate the players. Haaland acknowledged the surreal nature of these events, noting that the team’s growth in personality and tactical respect has allowed them to compete at a level once thought out of reach for a nation of Norway’s size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Norway defeat to reach this stage of the 2026 World Cup?
Norway defeated Brazil in a match held in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 5, 2026.
How long had it been since Norway last participated in a World Cup?
According to Erling Haaland, Norway had not participated in a World Cup for 28 years prior to this tournament.
Who is the current manager of the Norwegian national team?
The team is led by manager Ståle Solbakken, who oversaw their unbeaten qualifying run.
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