Brazil's dream of conquering the sixth World Cup title officially closed after a 1-2 defeat to Norway in the round of 16. In the stands of MetLife stadium, many Brazilian fans quietly left the field when their team was down, as if they had a premonition of an irreparable outcome.
This is the first time since the 1990 World Cup that Brazil has been eliminated in the round of 16, and also marks the sixth consecutive World Cup that Selecao has not been able to reach the top of the world. This defeat further raises doubts about the position of the most traditional team in World Cup history.
Erling Haaland was the main character of the match with a classy double, helping Norway win history. Neymar's late goal from the penalty spot was only of honor and could not change the situation.
After the final whistle, the Brazilian players stood stunned on the field. No one rushed off the field, because this defeat was too unacceptable for a team carrying the expectation of restoring the glory of Brazilian football.
Brazil actually did not lack opportunities. Vinicius Junior played his best match since the beginning of the tournament, continuously creating breakthroughs on the left flank. However, a major turning point came in the first half when Bruno Guimaraes missed a penalty, missing the opportunity to put Selecao ahead.
Subsequent changes also did not make a difference. Endrick was brought on but missed a good opportunity right in the first situation. Neymar came on from the bench, bringing a little hope with a goal from the 11m spot at the end of the match, but that was too late.
On the Norwegian side, this victory is completely deserved. Coach Stale Solbakken's team not only defends solidly but also organizes effective counter-attacks. Haaland continues to affirm the class of one of the best strikers in the world, while his teammates maintain discipline and bravery throughout 90 minutes.
This defeat continues to extend Brazil's obsession with European representatives at the World Cup. After Croatia, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and France in previous tournaments, Norway became the latest European team to send Selecao home.
After the match, coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted that Brazil needs a reform. The Italian strategist believes that the team lacks creative midfielders and needs to add many young talents to improve the quality of the squad.
In fact, the 2026 World Cup shows that Brazil still possesses many stars, but they have not formed a strong enough team to compete for the championship. Selecao lacks a world-class center forward, an aging midfield and a playing style that depends too much on Vinicius Junior.
Although Ancelotti affirms that this is the beginning of a new cycle instead of the end, the pressure on him will certainly be very high. Brazil still has nearly 4 years to prepare for the 2030 World Cup, but after another failed tournament, Selecao fans will expect more promises of a reconstruction.
