2026 FIFA World Cup: Round of 16 – Brazil vs Norway

Brazil face Japan in a tasty Round of 16 showdown in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

Brazil overcame Japan in their Round of 32 tie whilst Norway saw off Ivory Coast to book their passage into this tie.

 

Team News

Lucas Paqueta is ruled out for Brazil after he suffered a thigh strain in their 2-1 comeback win over Japan.

Raphinha (hamstring) is also sidelined but Casemiro faces a late fitness check due to a knock.

Norway have no fresh injury concerns after their 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast, as Julian Ryerson is set to remain absent with a thigh injury.

 

When is Kick-Off?

Brazil face Norway at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, USA, at 4pm EDT (9pm BST) on Sunday 5 July, live on …. and …. in the UK.

 

Stat Attack

• Brazil lost 2-1 to Norway in their only previous World Cup meeting in the 1998 edition.
• Norway have never lost to Brazil in all competitions (W2, D2).
• Gleison Bremer and Leo Pereira are the only outfield players to have not made a single appearance for Brazil at this World Cup.
• No Norway player has committed more fouls at the World Cup than David Moller Wolfe, with the defender having committed seven fouls in three appearances.

 

Prediction

Aside from their two clinical goals to avoid a shock early exit against Japan, Brazil seemed to lack much quality within their end product so I want to see them show more flair and sharpness to finish their attacks, otherwise this could be another slog for Brazilian fans.

Norway meanwhile certainly found themselves in a see-saw battle against Ivory Coast and have little to lose here given that they are marginally the underdogs, but if they can bring their well-managed intensity transitions then they do have the variety needed to trouble Brazil.

Carlo Ancelotti however would of been stuck into his Brazil performance after their Round of 32 performance but I do think that Norway have enough quality to take this to extra time, especially given the heat forecasted for this match and I wouldn’t be surprised if this goes to penalties.

Prediction: Brazil 1-1 Norway (Norway to win on penalties)

Result: Brazil 1-2 Norway