Brazil faces Norway in World Cup last 16, seeking to end European knockout drought against Haaland's aerial threat
Brazil takes on Norway in the World Cup round of 16 on Sunday in East Rutherford, aiming for a first knockout victory over a European team since 2002 while facing the tournament's joint-top scorer Erling Haaland.
Brazil's path to the last 16
Brazil, five-time world champions chasing a sixth star since 2002, have shown gradual improvement through the tournament. Their most convincing spell came in the second half of the round-of-32 match against Japan, who led at the break. Midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, now the team's metronome, delivered his fourth assist in four matches to Gabriel Martinelli for a late 2-1 winner. Vinicius Jr, the main offensive weapon, has four goals in the tournament, including a crucial equaliser in the opening 1-1 draw with Morocco.
Ancelotti's selection puzzle
Coach Carlo Ancelotti must reshape his midfield after Lucas Paqueta was ruled out. He could opt for a direct replacement like Danilo Santos or add an extra attacker, with 19-year-old Endrick or Martinelli in contention. Raphinha may return on the right wing after participating in Friday's full training session for the first time since a thigh injury. Neymar, Brazil's all-time top scorer with 79 goals, remains on the bench after a May injury.
Ancelotti told Folha de São Paulo he will bring Neymar on when the team needs him.He is not happy, but he is behaving very well. He is training very well.
Norway's aerial threat
Norway's physicality, especially on set pieces, is a major concern. Erling Haaland has five goals in the tournament, and Ancelotti highlighted the aerial danger posed by the 1.95m Manchester City striker, alongside Alexander Sorloth (1.96m) and defender Kristoffer Ajer (1.98m). Part of Friday's training was dedicated to countering Norway's aerial game. Goalkeeper Orjan Nyland said Norway will play "the match of their life".
- Vinicius Jr
- 4 goals
- Erling Haaland
- 5 goals
Historical baggage
Brazil has never beaten Norway in four meetings (two defeats, two draws). The Seleção have not defeated a European side in a World Cup knockout match since the 2002 final against Germany. At the 1998 World Cup in France, Norway beat Brazil in the group stage. Ancelotti acknowledged the challenge:
He added that his players are confident and at the right moment to deliver their best level.Norway is a difficult team, because it has structure, quality and good organisation.
