Five-time FIFA World Cup winners Brazil take on an ambitious Norway side in New Jersey as the pair battle for a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Brazil Looking to Build Momentum

Brazil finished top of Group C on goal difference after collecting seven points from their three group matches (W2, D1). However, they were made to work hard in the last 32, coming from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time winner.

That victory marked Brazil’s first knockout win at the World Cup after conceding first since their famous comeback against England in the 2002 quarter-finals, a tournament they ultimately went on to win. The Seleção have an outstanding record at this stage of the competition, winning nine of their last ten World Cup last-16 ties.

Despite that impressive statistic, there is one concern. Brazil have lost each of their last six World Cup knockout matches against European opposition, a run they will be desperate to end against Norway.

Norway Chasing More History

Norway arrive full of confidence after reaching the knockout stages as runners-up in Group I. Having already secured qualification, manager Ståle Solbakken rotated almost his entire starting XI for the final group match against France before his side defeated Ivory Coast 2-1 in the last 32.

That victory represented Norway’s first-ever World Cup knockout triumph after previous exits to Italy in both 1938 and 1998. Solbakken featured in the latter defeat and will now be hoping to guide his country to arguably the greatest result in their footballing history.

The Scandinavians have been in excellent form, winning 15 of their last 20 matches across all competitions (D3, L2), and will believe they have every chance of causing another upset.

Head-to-Head

History favours Norway, who remain unbeaten in four previous meetings with Brazil (W2, D2). Their most memorable success came at the 1998 FIFA World Cup, where they claimed a famous 2-1 victory.

Key Statistics

• Four of Brazil’s last five matches have produced exactly three goals.
• Seven of Brazil’s nine goals at this tournament have come after the 30th minute.
• Both teams have scored in all four of Norway’s World Cup matches.
• Each of Norway’s last five competitive fixtures has featured a goal after the 85th minute.

Players to Watch

Bruno Guimarães has been Brazil’s creative heartbeat, registering four assists during the tournament, including the decisive pass for the late winner against Japan. Only Pelé, with six assists in a single World Cup, has ever managed more for Brazil.

Norway’s chief playmaker Martin Ødegaard has also been outstanding. The Arsenal midfielder has recorded three assists in his first three appearances and could become the first player since records began in 1966 to provide an assist in each of his opening four World Cup matches.

Team News

Brazil will assess the fitness of Casemiro ahead of kick-off, while Lucas Paquetá and Raphinha remain major doubts.

Norway are hopeful defender Julian Ryerson will recover from a thigh injury in time to feature.

Betting Insight

Both sides possess plenty of attacking quality, while Norway’s matches have consistently produced goals throughout the tournament. With Brazil also carrying significant firepower, Over 3.5 Goals looks an attractive betting option in what promises to be an entertaining last-16 encounter.