Brazil crashes out of World Cup as Norway's Haaland double ends Ancelotti's first tournament

Brazil lost 2-0 to Norway in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 on July 5 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. Erling Haaland scored both Norwegian goals after Brazil's Bruno Guimaraes saw an early penalty saved. Neymar's late consolation penalty was insufficient as Brazil managed just 34% possession.

The loss marks Brazil's earliest World Cup exit since 1990 and extends their winless streak against European teams in knockout stages since 2002. Ancelotti, appointed in May 2025 with contract extended to 2030, faced immediate pressure despite realistic expectations about winning this year's tournament. The defeat highlights ongoing transition challenges for the Seleção.

Ancelotti insists he'll remain coach, calling the defeat 'the start of a new adventure' and pledging to use it as fuel for improvement. He emphasized the need for fresh talent, specifically mentioning 19-year-old Real Madrid prospect Endrick as potential leader for Brazil's next generation. The CBF targets a return to strength ahead of the 2028 Copa America and 2030 World Cup, aiming to end Brazil's 28-year World Cup drought since 2002.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/07/06/ancelotti-fails-in-mission-to-end-brazils-world-cup-woe/