Norway’s Next Opponent in the World Cup: Schedule, Bracket Path, and Key Dates

After a tight 2-1 victory over Côte d’Ivoire in Texas, Norway moves on in the World Cup. The match saw Antonio Nusa open the scoring just before halftime with a stunning curling shot. Côte d’Ivoire fought back late, leveling the score, but Erling Braut Haaland secured the win four minutes from time by poking in Patrick Berg’s cross. Haaland’s goal made him the first player since Sándor Kocsis in 1954 to score in each of his first three World Cup appearances.

Upcoming Clash: Norway vs Brazil

On Sunday, Norway will face Brazil at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Brazil came from behind to defeat Japan thanks to a last-minute goal by Gabriel Martinelli, marking the latest knockout stage winner in World Cup history. Both teams are positioned on an open side of the bracket, so the victor will have a promising path forward.

Norway’s Possible Knockout Stage Schedule

The winner of Norway versus Brazil is likely to meet England in the quarterfinals. Beyond that, Argentina could await in the semifinals. None of these matches promise ease, but Norway has reason to believe they can go far, starting with Brazil.

Why Norway Could Trouble Brazil

Brazil stands as a five-time world champion and the only nation to appear in every World Cup. Under Carlo Ancelotti, their coach with five Champions League titles, they remain a tough opponent. Still, Norway has been a rare stumbling block for them. Out of 88 teams Brazil has faced, Norway is the only team Brazil has failed to defeat, holding them to four matches without a win.

Head-to-Head Records: Norway vs Brazil

• July 1988 (Friendly, Oslo): Norway 1-1 Brazil
• May 1997 (Friendly, Oslo): Norway 4-2 Brazil
• June 1998 (World Cup Group Stage): Brazil 1-2 Norway
• August 2006 (Friendly, Oslo): Norway 1-1 Brazil

Their last World Cup encounter was in 1998 when Norway stunned defending champions Brazil 2-1 thanks to a late penalty from Kjetil Rekdal. This history suggests Norway might have a psychological edge despite Brazil’s strength.

Brazil faces challenges with key players Raphinha and Lucas Paquet sidelined by injury. Their defense showed vulnerability recently against Japan, who found space through the middle. If anyone can exploit those gaps, it’s probably Haaland. An upset could be closer than some expect.