Brazil meet Norway in heavyweight last-16 tie

Brazil face Norway at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday night in one of the standout ties of the 2026 World Cup last 16.

Brazil reached this stage with a comeback win over Japan, sealed by Gabriel Martinelli’s 95th-minute goal. Norway also progressed with a statement result, beating Ivory Coast through Erling Haaland’s brilliance.

Carlo Ancelotti is weighing up whether to start Endrick after the young forward changed the game off the bench against Japan. Norway will lean on Haaland and Martin Odegaard as they look to unsettle one of the tournament’s leading contenders.

The history is not on Brazil’s side. They have played Norway four times and have never won, with two draws and two defeats.

The winner will face Ecuador or Mexico in the quarter-finals. With Vinicius Junior in form and Haaland leading the line, the tie has the ingredients for a lively contest.