Norway are set to face Brazil in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup today, with one key doubt hanging over the team as Erling Haaland looks to lead what would be a remarkable upset. The match, scheduled to kick off at 4pm EDT (9pm BST), pits the five-time world champions against a Norwegian side that has exceeded expectations to reach the knockout stages. Haaland, the Manchester City striker and one of the most prolific goalscorers in world football, is nursing an injury that has left his participation uncertain, casting a shadow over Norway's hopes of progressing further in the tournament.
Haaland's potential absence would be a significant blow for Norway, who have relied heavily on his goalscoring prowess throughout the qualifying campaign and the group stage. The 25-year-old has been a talismanic figure for his national team, and his physical presence and finishing ability make him a constant threat to any defence. Brazil, meanwhile, boast a squad packed with talent and experience, and will be heavy favourites to advance to the quarter-finals, where a potential meeting with England awaits. The winner of this tie will face either England or their opponent in the next round, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already high-stakes encounter.
Norway's journey to the last 16 has been one of the stories of the tournament, with the team showing resilience and tactical discipline to navigate a challenging group. Their defence has been organised, and midfield has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for Haaland and other attackers. However, facing Brazil represents a step up in class, and the absence of their star striker would force Norway to adopt a more defensive approach, relying on counter-attacks and set pieces to trouble the Brazilian backline. Brazil, under their experienced manager, have looked impressive in the group stage, blending flair with efficiency, and will be confident of overcoming any obstacle put in their path.
The match also carries historical weight, as Norway have never beaten Brazil in a competitive fixture. Their only previous meeting in a World Cup came in 1998, when Brazil won 2-1 in the group stage. That match is remembered for a narrow defeat that saw Norway exit the tournament, while Brazil went on to reach the final. For Norwegian fans, this encounter offers a chance for redemption and a statement of progress for their national team. The Scandinavian solidarity has been evident, with supporters from neighbouring countries expressing their backing for Norway, as seen in messages from Danish fans who recall their own narrow loss to Brazil in the 1998 quarter-finals.
Team news remains fluid, with Norway's coaching staff monitoring Haaland's condition closely. If he is ruled out, Martin Ødegaard, the Arsenal midfielder and captain, will be expected to shoulder more creative responsibility, while forwards like Alexander Sørloth or Jørgen Strand Larsen could be called upon to lead the line. Brazil are expected to field a strong starting XI, with Neymar, Vinícius Júnior, and Richarlison likely to feature in attack, supported by a midfield anchored by Casemiro or Bruno Guimarães. The Brazilian defence, marshalled by Marquinhos, will be tasked with containing Norway's threat, regardless of whether Haaland plays.
The atmosphere at the stadium is expected to be electric, with a large contingent of Norwegian fans making the journey to support their team. Brazil, as always, will have significant backing from neutrals and their own passionate supporters. The match promises to be a compelling contest between a team chasing history and a footballing powerhouse aiming to add another star to their crest. For Norway, the challenge is clear: overcome the injury doubt surrounding their best player and produce a performance that defies the odds. For Brazil, the objective is to assert their dominance and take another step towards World Cup glory.
