Norway pin hopes on Haaland against Brazil in World Cup last 16

Norway's hopes of advancing in the World Cup rest heavily on the shoulders of star striker Erling Haaland, who has been in formidable form throughout the tournament. His late winner against Ivory Coast, his fifth goal of the competition, secured Norway's first-ever World Cup knockout stage victory and marked a significant return after a 28-year absence from the global stage.

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Brazil are favourites, of course they are, but we are hopeful that we will give them a match, and we are not playing the game for fun – we are playing to win the game and to reach the quarter-finals.

The team now faces a daunting challenge against five-time champions Brazil in the last 16. However, history offers a glimmer of hope, as Norway has never lost to Brazil in their four previous encounters, boasting two wins and two draws. This historical edge, coupled with their recent success, fuels their ambition to replicate their famous 1998 group-stage triumph.

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It’s possible, but it’s very difficult.

Coach Stale Solbakken acknowledges Brazil as the favorites but remains optimistic about his team's chances, stating, "We are not playing the game for fun – we are playing to win the game and to reach the quarter-finals." He emphasizes the importance of Haaland, whom he calls "the greatest goalscorer in the world," and the need to create opportunities for him. Captain Martin Odegaard echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team's luck in having Haaland and the necessity of maximizing his potential. Norway's defense will also need to contend with Brazil's Vinicius Junior, who has been their leading scorer and most influential player.

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It’s amazing to have him in the team, we’re lucky to have him and it’s just about giving him as many opportunities as possible.