Haaland’s Double Sends Norway Past Brazil 2-1 into World Cup Quarters

Sports

Norway stunned five-time World Cup winners Brazil with a 2-1 victory in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The match remained tight through the first 45 minutes, with both teams failing to find a breakthrough as the half ended goalless.

Erling Haaland, playing for Norway and the Manchester City club, put his side in front in the 79th minute and went on to score twice to seal the win.

With his haul, Haaland moved level with Messi at the top of the tournament scoring standings, finishing the day on seven goals.

Brazil responded with a late penalty, which Neymar Jr converted, but it was not enough to keep their World Cup campaign going.

The result also marked a milestone for Norway, who surpassed their previous best-ever showing at the finals by reaching the quarterfinals for the first time in their history.

Zibuyile Dladla
Zibuyile Dladla
Senior Writer

Zibuyile began her media journey as a sales intern at Mediamark (Kagiso Media) before moving into digital content creation for ZAlebs.com. Over four years, she helped evolve the platform from a simple blog into one of South Africa’s leading independent entertainment news sites.
Following ZAlebs’ transition to Celebrity Worx in 2016, Zibuyile was promoted to Executive Editor, recognized for her sharp audience insight and ability to match editorial with branded content. Highlights of her time include a Bookmark Award nomination, judging TLC’s Next Great Presenter, reporting from the MTV EMAs, and building partnerships with radio stations like YFM, Cliff Central, and Good Hope FM.
Her editorial work also expanded to include fast-growing digital verticals—such as lifestyle tech, online entertainment, and gambling-related content—tailored to evolving reader interests and brand opportunities.

Zalebs