Erling Haaland delivered when it mattered most, scoring twice in the closing stages as Norway stunned five-time champions Brazil 2-1 on Sunday to reach the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in the nation's history.

After a quiet first half, Haaland came alive following a second-half tactical reshuffle. The Manchester City striker headed Norway in front in the 79th minute from an Andreas Schjelderup cross before adding another just over a minute later, taking his tournament tally to seven goals and moving level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé in the Golden Boot race.

According to AP, Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland also played a decisive role in the historic victory, saving Bruno Guimaraes' first-half penalty before producing several crucial stops to frustrate Brazil's attack. Neymar pulled one back from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time, but it was only a consolation as Brazil crashed out before the quarterfinals for the first time since 1990.

"Maybe this will write history in Norway," Haaland said after the match. "This is one of the most insane days in Norwegian history."

Head coach Stale Solbakken's halftime substitutions proved decisive, with Schjelderup setting up both of Haaland's goals after coming off the bench. Norway will now face England in the quarterfinals in Miami Gardens, Florida.

For Brazil, the defeat marked another painful World Cup disappointment. Coach Carlo Ancelotti defended the decision to let Guimaraes take the early penalty instead of Vinícius Junior, while captain Marquinhos admitted the Seleçao failed to capitalize on their chances.

The victory also ended Brazil's hopes of a record-extending run in the tournament, while Norway celebrated one of the greatest achievements in its football history, with Haaland leading jubilant fans in celebration after the final whistle.

BOB Post