Press reactions to Norway's win over Brazil: 'Brazil witnesses the passage of the comet Haaland'

Norway's historic advancement to the World Cup quarter-finals has ignited jubilation in domestic media, particularly following their decisive victory over Brazil. National broadcaster NRK proclaimed, "Erling Haaland has sent Norway to the heavens." Verdens Gang (VG) lauded both match-winner Haaland and goalkeeper Örjan Nyland, who "stood like a living wall." The newspaper emphasized the magnitude of the achievement, noting that Norway had never before reached a World Cup quarter-final. VG declared, "But Norway has never had Erling Braut Haaland." Dagbladet escalated the praise, calling the win an "earthquake" and the greatest Norwegian sporting achievement ever. Aftenposten celebrated a "historic World Cup evening," stating that Norway's football journey had reached "unforeseen heights" as "the whole world is now watching." The paper noted Haaland "unleashed himself to his heart's content."

In stark contrast, Brazilian newspapers are filled with disappointment and disillusionment. GloboEsporte commented that Haaland "unleashed himself to his heart's content" while Brazil was eliminated. The sports newspaper Lance! dramatically stated, "Brazil witnesses the passage of the comet Haaland." O Globo sarcastically questioned, "Is this the Hexa?" referencing Brazil's pursuit of a sixth World Cup title and highlighting their repeated early exits since 2006. Folha de S. Paulo succinctly summarized the outcome: "Norwegians row, triumph and send Brazil to the beach at the World Cup." Zero Hora from Porto Alegre lamented a painful déjà vu, noting that "again! The film has been repeating itself since 2006." The paper pointed to a missed penalty and a missed great chance as reasons for another World Cup loss.

International headlines also focused heavily on Haaland's performance. The British Guardian reported on a "late brace" that shocked Brazil and sent Norway through. Spanish media elevated Haaland further, with Marca calling him a "cyborg" who destroyed Brazil. AS stated Haaland "devoured" Brazil, describing his seven goals in his first World Cup as "lethal" and "inhuman." The newspaper Sport even hailed him as "god-like," calling it a historic evening.