Haaland double and Nyland penalty save send Norway past Brazil 2-1, ending Neymar's World Cup career
Erling Haaland scored twice in the final 11 minutes and goalkeeper Orjan Nyland saved a first-half penalty as Norway shocked five-time champions Brazil 2-1 in the World Cup round of 16, bringing a tearful end to Neymar's tournament career.
Nyland's early heroics
Norway's victory was built on a crucial first-half penalty save. After a VAR review for a foul on Cunha, Bruno Guimaraes stepped up, but Nyland dived to his right to keep the ball out. The save, Nyland later said, gave the team "breathing space" and set the tone for a resilient defensive display.
Obviously when you are able to save a penalty that early it is then very hard to beat you. It was a great moment for myself but also for the team to give ourselves some breathing space.
Haaland's decisive double
With the match goalless deep into the second half, Haaland broke the deadlock. He rose above Gabriel to head home a cross, then minutes later unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the area that left Allison with no chance. The two goals in quick succession stunned the Brazilian side and put Norway on the brink of a historic quarterfinal berth.
- Nyland saves Bruno Guimaraes' penalty after VAR review
- Haaland heads Norway into the lead
- Haaland scores from edge of area to make it 2-0
- Neymar converts penalty in 100th minute, final score 2-1
Neymar's farewell
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti introduced Neymar in the second half, sparking a roar from the New York crowd. The 34-year-old forward, playing in his fourth and final World Cup, had a muted impact until he converted a penalty in the 100th minute after a soft foul by Norway. He exchanged words with Nyland before the kick, telling the goalkeeper "Not to me. Not to me," but the goal was only a consolation. Neymar left the field in tears, his World Cup career ending with 15 appearances, nine goals and four assists.
Not to me. Not to me.
- Matches
- 15
- Goals
- 9
- Assists
- 4
Norway's historic run continues
Norway, who had beaten Ivory Coast 2-1 in the previous round, now advance to the quarterfinals for the first time. They will face the winner of the Mexico-England match. Nyland, a free agent after his Sevilla contract expired on June 30, said he hoped the victory would inspire young players in Norway.
We have written some history so hopefully many young kids in Norway can relive this moment when they go to play football or soccer... and that they can dream to one day be in the same position as me and that it is possible no matter where you come from.
