2026 World Cup: Norway, Brazil’s nemesis

05.07.26 FT World Cup

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Norway stands in Brazil’s way at this World Cup. The Seleção would have preferred to avoid this opponent, as they have never beaten them in the history of their encounters.

By defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 thanks to a decisive goal from Erling Haaland on Tuesday night, Norway clinched a spot alongside Brazil in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. This thrilling clash is set for Sunday, July 5 at 8pm GMT at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

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Before this showdown, the two national teams have faced off four times, and the striking fact is that Brazil has never managed to claim victory. The Norwegians have won twice, with two matches ending in draws.

Of those four meetings, only one was an official match: the 1998 World Cup group stage, when Norway defeated an already-qualified Brazil side 2-1 to book their own place in the last 16. Morocco, who beat Scotland 3-0 at the same time, was eliminated and accused Brazil of easing off the gas.

The Norwegians also triumphed in 1997 in a friendly, winning 4-2 thanks in large part to Tore André Flo, who netted a brace and provided an assist. Djalminha and Romario were on target for Brazil.

There was also a 1-1 draw in a friendly in 1988, as well as in the most recent meeting between Brazil and Norway. That was back in 2006, when Daniel Carvalho (62’) cancelled out Morten Gamst Pedersen’s opener (51’). Final score: 1-1.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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