World Cup 2026: Stale Solbakken hails Norway's historic victory over Brazil

EAST RUTHERFORD: Norway head coach Stale Solbakken hailed his players' historic achievement after they stunned five-time champions Brazil 2-1 to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals for the first time in the nation's history on Sunday.

Inspired by a brilliant brace from Erling Haaland and a string of crucial saves from goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, Norway produced one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, eliminating Brazil in the Round of 16 here at New York New Jersey Stadium.

Reflecting on the memorable victory, Solbakken praised the collective effort of his side and urged the entire nation to celebrate the landmark result.

"I think everyone who’s a Norwegian citizen can enjoy this evening. That was a real thriller—it could have gone either way. But we played a solid, tactical game,” Solbakken said.

“We had a few turnovers that could have cost us. But all in all, it went our way, and we should be damn proud of that."

The Norway boss also explained the tactical approach behind his team's success, comparing the contest to elite European club football and highlighting his side's patience in breaking down their illustrious opponents.

"Why did it go our way? Well, we’re playing—it’s a bit like Manchester City versus Real Madrid,” Solbakken added.

“They sit back and rely on counterattacks, and we have to wear them down. Because that’s what we’re best at, and I think we did a good job of it."

Norway's reward is a historic place in the World Cup quarter-finals, where they will face England in Miami Gardens, as Solbakken's side continue their remarkable run at the tournament.