FIFA World Cup 2026 LIVE updates: Norway defeat five-time champions Brazil 2-1; Mexico prepare for England in round of 16

In a stunning upset, Norway secured a historic 2-1 victory over five-time World Cup champions Brazil in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the Scandinavian nation’s first ever World Cup quarter-final berth. The match, held in New Jersey, saw Erling Haaland deliver a masterclass performance, scoring both goals in the final ten minutes to seal the win. This dramatic result sent shockwaves through the football world, particularly among Brazilian fans and analysts, who had widely considered the South American giants as strong contenders for the tournament title.

The match began with Brazil taking control early, showcasing their usual attacking flair and technical prowess. However, Norway, led by the towering presence of Haaland, proved resilient and tactical. The breakthrough came in the 79th minute when Haaland rose above defenders to head home a cross from the edge of the box, putting Norway ahead. The lead was short-lived, as Brazil equalized in the 85th minute via a penalty awarded after a contentious foul on Neymar. But the momentum shifted decisively in Norway’s favor when Haaland struck again in the 90th minute, finishing coolly from close range to secure the win. The goal sparked wild celebrations among Norwegian fans, many of whom wore traditional Viking attire, symbolizing their pride and cultural identity.

The victory was not without controversy, as Brazil’s players appeared visibly frustrated and disbelieving throughout the match. Neymar, in particular, broke down emotionally after the final whistle, having been expected to lead his team to glory. His final World Cup appearance ended in heartbreak, with Brazil exiting the tournament at the round of 16—a fate they hadn’t experienced since 1990. For Norway, the triumph represents a monumental achievement, especially considering their relatively modest reputation on the global stage compared to Brazil’s storied legacy.

Meanwhile, preparations were underway for the other high-stakes encounter of the day: Mexico versus England at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. Both teams had arrived at the venue despite forecasts of heavy thunderstorms, prompting a “shelter in place” order for staff and officials. The match was initially scheduled to start at 6:00 PM local time, but concerns over weather conditions led FIFA to consider adjusting the kick-off time. Ultimately, the decision was made to keep the original schedule, though the possibility of further delays remained. England, making three changes to their starting XI, included Jarell Quansah at right back following an ankle injury, while Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon joined the squad. Mexico, on the other hand, opted to maintain their unchanged lineup, confident in their home advantage.

This World Cup has seen several moments of tension, including reports of increased aggression toward referees, with some fans allegedly harassing officials and even manhandling them. Such incidents have raised questions about the integrity of the competition and the need for stricter enforcement of rules to protect match officials. While these issues remain unresolved, the focus remains on the upcoming fixtures, with the quarter-final draw between Norway and the winner of Mexico-England promising to be one of the most anticipated matchups of the tournament.

As the dust settles on a remarkable day in World Cup history, the spotlight shifts to the next phase of the competition. Norway’s historic run continues, while England and Mexico prepare for a crucial showdown that could determine the next round of the tournament. With the stakes higher than ever, the World Cup continues to captivate audiences worldwide, delivering unforgettable moments and unexpected outcomes.