Brazil faces Norway in World Cup last 16 as Ancelotti's side seeks first ever win over the Scandinavians
The five-time champions take on Erling Haaland's Norway at MetLife Stadium in New York, with a quarter-final spot against either Mexico or England at stake.
The main event
Brazil and Norway meet in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday 5 July at 22:00 CEST (16:00 local time in New York). The match at MetLife Stadium pits Carlo Ancelotti's Seleção against a Norwegian side built around Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, who has already scored five goals in the tournament. The winner will face either Mexico or England in the quarter-finals.
Historical baggage
Brazil have never beaten Norway in four previous encounters, with two draws and two defeats between 1988 and 2006. It is the only major national team the five-time world champions have failed to defeat. The Norwegian camp is drawing confidence from that record, while the Brazilian squad is trying to ignore it.
You are changing not only the history of Norwegian football, but the history of Norway in general.
Team news and tactics
Ancelotti is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 with Vinicius Junior and Matheus Cunha leading the attack, though Lucas Paquetá is out injured and Raphinha remains unavailable. Gabriel Martinelli, whose late goal rescued Brazil against Japan in the previous round, may start. The Arsenal forward praised Ancelotti's calming influence.
Norway will line up in a 4-3-3 with Haaland flanked by Antonio Nusa and Alexander Sorloth, and Martin Odegaard orchestrating from midfield. Coach Stale Solbakken issued a video challenge to Ancelotti after the win over Ivory Coast.He's a surreal guy.
The nightcap: Mexico vs England
Later, at 2:00 CEST on Monday 6 July, Mexico host England at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The home side beat Ecuador 2-0 to reach this stage, while England needed a Harry Kane double to edge past DR Congo 2-1. The Azteca, site of Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal 40 years ago, is expected to be a hostile venue for the Three Lions.
- Brazil vs Norway kicks off at MetLife Stadium, New York
- Mexico vs England kicks off at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
How to watch
In Italy, Brazil-Norway is broadcast free-to-air on Rai 1 and streamed on Rai Play and DAZN. Mexico-England is on DAZN. In France, beIN Sports 1 and M6 carry the early match, with beIN Sports 1 showing the late game.
