Haaland (number 9) celebrates the decisive goal in Norway's 2-1 victory over Cote d'Ivoire in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup at Dallas Stadium in the US, on 30/6. Photo: AP

Norwegian daily Dagbladet published a provocative headline on 2/7: "Brazil is fearful," suggesting the South American football powerhouse received a clear warning about Norway's strength before their knockout stage clash. In the round of 16, Erling Haaland scored the decisive goal, helping Norway defeat Cote d'Ivoire 2-1. This marked Norway's first knockout stage victory in a World Cup.

Haaland also scored in his third consecutive match at the 2026 World Cup, bringing his tally to 5 goals, just one shy of Lionel Messi (Argentina) and Kylian Mbappe (France). He has now scored 60 goals for the national team in 53 matches, with 25 of those coming in his last 13 appearances.

Norwegian commentator Eston Saether noted that despite not yet delivering an explosive collective attacking performance, the national team has sent a strong message to one of the world's football powerhouses. "Norway possesses players and attacking prowess capable of defeating any opponent at any time. Therefore, it's no surprise if Brazil feels concerned about facing the most challenging opponent in the round of 16," he stated.

Key moments from Norway's 2-1 victory over Cote d'Ivoire.

The upcoming match carries historical weight. At the 1998 World Cup, Norway made headlines by defeating Brazil 2-1, a team that featured a host of stars such as Ronaldo Nazario, Rivaldo, Bebeto, Roberto Carlos, and Cafu.

Former international Oyvind Leonhardsen admitted to special emotions witnessing the current generation recreate a historic journey. "You can't believe it. I almost shed tears sitting here. Getting to face Brazil again is unbelievable," he told VG newspaper: "When we played them, I was in the 'bubble' of the match. I didn't see it from the outside. But I must say, it's truly exciting, and I am grateful for it."

Kjetil Rekdal, a key figure in the 1998 victory who scored the decisive penalty, also expressed excitement. "The match against Brazil will be extremely thrilling. They will have to be wary of Norway. Brazil has never beaten us. History could repeat itself. The psychological factor will play a big role," Rekdal stated on VG's World Cup program. The 57-year-old former star believes Norwegian fans have every reason to hope: "People are thinking, who knows, maybe we can go even further. We have eliminated two very strong African teams. The current odds might be 70-30 in favor of Norway against Brazil."

Norway (red jersey) in their victory against Ronaldo Nazario's Brazil (yellow jersey) in the group stage of the 1998 World Cup at Velodrome, Marseille, France, on 23/6/1998. Photo: Action Images

Former defender Stig Inge Bjornebye, who also participated in that historic 1998 match in Marseille, expressed pride in seeing the current generation continue to write Norway's football story. "There is something very special about this generation. They truly deserve it. It's time for new stories. We shouldn't just keep talking about the past," he said, confident that Norway would defeat Brazil. "I have a feeling everything is predetermined. They will win. I'm quite sure of it."

Leonhardsen echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the match's special significance: "I am emotional because this means a lot to the people and to Norwegian football. This is a match that has been talked about extensively. It's wonderful that the national team can rewrite history."

Hong Duy (according to Globo, VG)