The 2026 FIFA World Cup is delivering unforgettable drama. In the span of 24 hours, two of the biggest stories of the tournament unfolded: Norway’s historic takedown of Brazil powered by Erling Haaland, and England’s gritty 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca. Here’s everything you need to know.
🇳🇴 Haaland Heroics: Norway Stun Brazil 2-1
Norway pulled off one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history on Sunday, knocking five-time champions Brazil out of the tournament with a stunning 2-1 victory in the Round of 16. Erling Haaland delivered when it mattered most, scoring two goals in the final 10 minutes to send the Nordic nation into the quarter-finals for the first time ever.
Brazil dominated the first half, with Bruno Guimarães missing a penalty that could have changed the match. Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical gamble — deploying Gabriel Martinelli in central midfield — failed to pay off as Norway grew into the game after a double substitution at half-time by coach Ståle Solbakken.
With nine minutes left, substitute Andreas Schjelderup crossed for Haaland, the Norwegian talisman rising above Gabriel Magalhães to power a header past Alisson. Deep into stoppage time, Haaland struck again — a clinical low finish across goal to seal the win. Neymar scored a late penalty consolation in the 9th minute of added time, but it was too little, too late.
“This is one of the sickest days in Norway’s history,” Haaland said after the match. He now has seven goals in the tournament and leads the race for the Golden Boot.
🏴 England Survive Azteca Thriller, Beat Mexico 3-2
Just 24 hours later, England produced their best World Cup knockout performance since 1966, defeating co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a chaotic, rain-soaked epic at the Estadio Azteca. The stadium — site of Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” in 1986 — once again played host to a momentous England match.
Jude Bellingham was the star, scoring twice in the first half to give England a 2-0 lead. His first was a trademark crashing header from a Bukayo Saka cross; his second came from relentless pressing, with Harry Kane providing the assist. Mexico pulled one back through Julián Quiñones before half-time.
Jarell Quansah was sent off for a reckless challenge after the break, forcing England into a defensive shell. But Harry Kane restored the two-goal cushion from the penalty spot — his sixth of the tournament and an astonishing 73rd of the season. Mexico struck back again through Raúl Jiménez, also from the spot. England held on with heroic defending — Dan Burn’s blocks and Jordan Pickford’s composure proving decisive.
Thunderstorms delayed kick-off by an hour, adding to the drama at 87,000-capacity Azteca. England advance to face Norway in the quarter-finals in Miami on Saturday.
🗓️ Quarter-Final Matchups
- 🇫🇷 France vs 🇲🇦 Morocco
- 🇳🇴 Norway vs 🏴 England (Miami, Saturday)
- 🇵🇹 Portugal vs 🇪🇸 Spain (Iberian Derby, Dallas)
- 🇺🇸 USA vs 🇧🇪 Belgium
❓ FAQ
Q: When is Norway vs England?
A: Saturday, July 11 in Miami. Exact kick-off TBC.
Q: Who leads the Golden Boot race?
A: Erling Haaland (7 goals), ahead of Harry Kane (6) and Kylian Mbappé (4).
Q: Has Norway ever reached a World Cup quarter-final before?
A: No — this is Norway’s first ever quarter-final appearance. Their previous best was the Round of 16 in 1938 and 1998.
Q: Is this Ronaldo’s last World Cup?
A: Yes. Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed this tournament in North America will be his final World Cup appearance for Portugal.
Final Thoughts
This is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable World Cups in history. Norway’s fairytale run, England’s resilience at the Azteca, and the prospect of an Iberian derby between Portugal and Spain have fans on the edge of their seats. With Messi already eliminated and Ronaldo saying goodbye, a changing of the guard is underway.
Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for more World Cup 2026 coverage!