[AP]
[AP]

Erling Haaland scored twice to lead Norway past Brazil in the round of 16 at the 2026 North America World Cup, then shared his reaction after the match.

Haaland posted a photo on social media Sunday showing him with arms spread wide and eyes closed in celebration, alongside the caption: "28 years of waiting was worth it."

Norway defeated Brazil 2-1 in the round of 16 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, powered by Haaland's brace.

The two goals brought Haaland's tournament tally to seven, drawing him level with Lionel Messi of Argentina and Kylian Mbappe of France at the top of the Golden Boot standings.

Norway had not appeared at a World Cup since the 1998 tournament in France — a 28-year absence — and Sunday's victory marked the best result the country has ever achieved at the competition.

The win also extended Norway's perfect record against Brazil at the World Cup. Norway beat Brazil 2-1 in the group stage of that same 1998 tournament, making it two wins from two meetings.

[Reuters]
[Reuters]

The two sides were evenly matched for much of the contest, but Haaland broke the deadlock in the 79th minute, heading home a cross from Andreas Anderup to put Norway ahead.

Norway doubled their lead in the 90th minute when Haaland received a pass from Seldrup on the left side of the penalty area and drove a powerful left-footed shot into the net to make it 2-0.

Brazil pulled one back from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time, but the deficit proved too great and their comeback fell short.


ygmoon@heraldcorp.com