Twenty-eight years after their only previous World Cup meeting, Brazil and Norway face off at MetLife Stadium on Sunday for a place in the quarter-finals of World Cup 2026.Carlo Ancelotti’s Selecao battled back from a goal down to defeat Japan 2–1 in the round of 32, while Norway edged Ivory Coast by the same scoreline thanks to another decisive contribution from Erling Haaland.Verdict: Brazil winBest odds: 89/100Bookmaker: 22betBrazilBrazil head into the knockout clash knowing they have never beaten Norway, a statistic that adds an unusual layer of pressure to a fixture they would ordinarily be expected to control.Their most famous meeting came at the 1998 World Cup, when the Scandinavians overturned a 1–0 deficit to win 2–1 in Marseille. The two nations also shared a 1–1 draw in a 2006 friendly, meaning the Selecao are still searching for a first-ever victory over the Vikings.That historical record may be insignificant to many of the current players, but it serves as a reminder that Norway have consistently posed problems for Brazil. The five-time world champions were given another stern test against Japan in the previous round, where they found themselves trailing before Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical gamble transformed the contest.After Kaishu Sano put Japan ahead, Ancelotti introduced Endrick and shifted to a far more aggressive setup. The change paid off immediately, with Casemiro heading home the equaliser before Gabriel Martinelli struck a dramatic stoppage-time winner to send Brazil through.The victory maintained Brazil’s upward trajectory after a mixed start to the tournament. Following an opening draw with Morocco, the Selecao responded with victories over Haiti and Scotland before overcoming Japan in the knockout stage. With Vinícius Júnior in outstanding form and the attack showing increasing fluency, confidence remains high.Team NewsThere are, however, fitness concerns. Raphinha remains unavailable, while Lucas Paquetá and Casemiro are both being monitored after picking up issues against Japan. Casemiro is expected to be fit enough to feature, but Paquetá could be replaced by Danilo Santos in midfield.Matheus Cunha is likely to keep his place despite being unable to add to his goal tally in the previous round, while Endrick may once again be used as an impact substitute rather than starting from the outset. Vinícius remains the primary threat after contributing four goals and one assist during the tournament.NorwayNorway have embraced a fearless approach since returning to the World Cup, and that mentality has helped carry them into the knockout rounds for the first time in nearly three decades.Their route to the quarter-final stage has been powered by goals. The Vikings have scored in every match they have played at the tournament, and although defensive frailties remain evident, their firepower has repeatedly compensated.Erling Haaland has been the driving force behind that success. The Manchester City striker has already scored five goals in his first World Cup campaign, accounting for half of Norway’s total output in North America. His latest contribution came against Ivory Coast, where he struck a late winner to secure progression.While Norway suffered a heavy defeat against France in their final group match, that result came with a heavily rotated lineup after qualification had already been secured. Outside of that setback, Ståle Solbakken’s men have won every game they have played at the tournament.Team NewsThe squad received encouraging news ahead of the quarter-final. Julian Ryerson is closing in on a return after missing recent matches with a thigh injury and could be involved in some capacity. Otherwise, Norway have few concerns entering the contest.Beyond Haaland, creativity remains a major strength. Martin Ødegaard and Patrick Berg have supplied five assists between them during the competition, consistently creating opportunities for the forward line.Norway’s direct attacking approach and willingness to commit bodies forward make them dangerous opponents, particularly against teams uncomfortable defending transitions.Key Factors to ConsiderBrazil have never beaten Norway in four previous meetings.Vinícius Júnior has directly contributed to five goals during the tournament.Norway have scored in every World Cup match they have played in 2026.Erling Haaland has netted five goals, accounting for 50% of Norway’s total scoring output.Brazil are dealing with fitness concerns involving Lucas Paquetá and Casemiro.Norway’s counter-attacking style could exploit the defensive vulnerabilities Brazil have shown throughout the tournament.ConclusionThis has all the ingredients of one of the most entertaining quarter-final contests of the tournament. Brazil possess greater depth, experience and individual quality, but Norway’s direct style and the presence of Haaland ensure they will carry a genuine threat whenever they break forward.The Selecao appear to be building momentum at the right time, yet they have still shown vulnerabilities when dealing with quick transitions and physical attacking sides. Norway’s strengths align closely with those areas.Expect opportunities at both ends of the pitch, but the greater overall quality and momentum, as well as the aura that Brazil possess, should be enough to see Ancelotti’s team move forward.Verdict: Brazil winBest odds: 89/100Bookmaker: 22betThe post Prediction: Brazil vs Norway appeared first on SoccerNews.