Norway's Next Opponent at the World Cup: Schedule, Bracket Path, and Key Dates
Norway secured their spot in the round of 16 after a 2-1 win over Côte d'Ivoire in Texas. The match was quiet for most of the first half until Antonio Nusa scored a stunning goal just before halftime. Later, Ivory Coast leveled the score with about 15 minutes left, pushing the game toward extra time. Yet, Erling Braut Haaland, after a slick pass from Patrick Berg, scored the winning goal four minutes before full time. Haaland made history as the first player since Sándor Kocsis in 1954 to score in each of his first three World Cup appearances.
Who Will Norway Face Next?
On Sunday, Norway will face Brazil in New Jersey. Brazil recently overcame Japan with a last-minute goal by Gabriel Martinelli, marking the latest knockout stage winner in World Cup history. Both teams are in a relatively open part of the bracket, so the winner at MetLife Stadium could have a promising path ahead.
Potential Challenges Ahead
The winner between Norway and Brazil is expected to face England in Miami on July 11. After that, Argentina could await in the semifinals in Atlanta. Both would be tough opponents, but Norway seems confident they can compete with anyone, starting with Brazil.
Why Brazil Might Struggle Against Norway
Brazil is widely seen as the favorite. They have won the World Cup five times and are the only nation to appear in all 23 tournaments. Their current coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has an impressive record with five Champions League titles. Despite this, Brazil has never beaten Norway in four matches, including a World Cup group stage loss in 1998 when Norway won 2-1 thanks to a late penalty by Kjetil Rekdal.
Previous Norway vs. Brazil Meetings
- July 1988 (Friendly, Oslo): 1-1 draw
- May 1997 (Friendly, Oslo): Norway 4-2 Brazil
- June 1998 (World Cup Group Stage): Norway 2-1 Brazil
- August 2006 (Friendly, Oslo): 1-1 draw
Brazil currently faces some setbacks with injuries to Raphinha and Lucas Paquetá. Their defense has shown weaknesses, seen when Japan scored through the middle. Haaland might exploit these gaps, so an upset cannot be ruled out.
