Brazil crashes out of World Cup 2026 in earliest exit in 36 years after Norway shock

Brazil’s World Cup 2026 campaign came to a stunning and premature end in the Round of 16, as Norway beat the five-time champions 2-1. It marks Brazil’s earliest elimination from the tournament in 36 years — the last time they fell this early was back in 1990. Norway delivered what could be the finest performance in their national team’s history, led by the unstoppable Erling Haaland. The Manchester City striker bagged a brace, single-handedly tearing apart the Brazilian defense. His first goal was a trademark explosive run and finish after a pinpoint lobbed pass; his second came from a sharp strike inside the box after a Brazilian turnover. Brazil’s only response was a penalty converted by Neymar in the 78th minute, but it was far too little. The South American giants barely managed to create any real danger in the final third after that, and Norway held on comfortably to secure a historic quarterfinal berth — their first ever at a World Cup. Norway will now face the winner of Argentina vs. Paraguay. For Brazil, this is a massive failure that will almost certainly trigger major changes in both the coaching staff and the squad.