Heat Wave in New Jersey Could Delay Brazil vs. Norway World Cup 2026 Clash

FIFA is weighing a one-hour postponement for the Round of 16 match between Norway and Brazil at the 2026 World Cup due to extreme heat expected in New Jersey, according to ESPN Brasil journalist Pedro Ivo Almeida. Almeida reported on Twitter that the governing body is considering pushing the kickoff to midnight local time to steer clear of the hottest part of the day. No official decision has been made yet, but the safety of players is reportedly a top priority. The game is slated for a stadium in New Jersey, where summer temperatures often soar into the mid-90s Fahrenheit (35-40°C). Moving the start time would help mitigate the risk of heat-related issues during what promises to be a high-intensity knockout fixture. Both teams are set to square off in the World Cup's knockout stage for the first time in years. The 2026 tournament is being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.