Haaland's header seals victory over Brazil, leads Viking clap celebration as Norway advances

2026 World Cup Key News

(Central News Agency, Helsinki, July 6) The 2026 World Cup Round of 16 knockout stage witnessed a historic night as Norway reached the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in their history. After the match, Norwegian superstar Erling Haaland took over the drumsticks and led the entire stadium in the iconic "Viking clap" celebration. Oslo saw a crowd of 100,000 people, with the entire nation celebrating in unison.

In this match, Haaland displayed exceptional dominance, scoring twice. His spectacular header and a crucial near-game-winning goal in the final moments led Norway to a 2-1 victory over five-time champions Brazil.

According to live on-site reports from Norwegian media TV2, the match held at MetLife Stadium was full of drama. The teams were locked in a stalemate in the early stages until the 79th minute when Norwegian substitute Andreas Schjelderup delivered a high cross from the left. Haaland showcased his aerial prowess, powerfully heading the ball into the net to give Norway the lead.

In the final moments of regulation time in the 90th minute, just as fans and commentators thought the match would go into extra time, Haaland stepped up again. He received a pass at the edge of the penalty area and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot that went through the legs of a Brazilian defender and into the net, completing his brace. Although Brazil managed to pull one back from a penalty converted by Neymar in stoppage time, it was not enough to turn the tide.

● Brazil's 28-year "Norway Curse" continues, star player in tears

After their defeat, Brazil once again failed to break the mysterious curse of "never having beaten Norway in a men's international football match." As the final whistle blew, top stars like Vinicius Jr. and Neymar were seen covering their faces and weeping on the field. Countless Brazilian fans who had traveled from afar to support the Seleção were also in disbelief, burying their heads in their hands and crying.

Norway's legendary achievement would not have been possible without the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland. Reports indicate that his numerous crucial saves throughout the match were key to securing the victory. In the 14th minute of the first half, Norwegian defender Kristoffer Ajer conceded a penalty inside the box. Brazil's midfielder Bruno Guimarães took the penalty, but Nyland, with accurate judgment, managed to save it.

In the second half, Nyland continued to display his dominance, repeatedly thwarting dangerous Brazilian shots in stoppage time. His desperate saves, including one where he nearly hit the goalpost, made him Norway's most solid last line of defense.

● Haaland takes drumsticks to lead "Viking clap" celebration, 100,000 celebrate in Oslo

After the match, captain Martin Ødegaard, who had been acting as the "drummer," unexpectedly handed the drumsticks to Haaland. Haaland appeared slightly surprised but quickly composed himself, signaling the audience with his hands to follow the drumbeat. He raised the drumsticks and beat the drum, leading the Norwegian players and fans in the stadium to chant "Ro! Ro! Ro!" in unison while performing the "Viking clap" movement, creating a spectacular scene.

Haaland, speaking emotionally to Norwegian national broadcaster NRK after the match, said: "This is the wildest day in Norwegian sports history! I wish I could be out celebrating with everyone on the streets of Oslo right now."

Norway was plunged into collective euphoria. According to TV2 and police statistics, over 100,000 people gathered in the streets after the match, celebrating from City Hall Square, along Karl Johans gate, to the Royal Palace Square in the capital, Oslo. Even Crown Prince Haakon was seen among the jubilant crowd.

Due to the overwhelming number of celebrating people, fireworks, and the resounding cheers, Norwegian police admitted to being "busy all night." This historic victory, etched in the annals of history, kept Norway awake all night.

Norway will face England on the 12th, vying for a spot in the World Cup semifinals. (Editor: Tian Ruihua) 1150706

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