Brazil Sent Packing
If Japan had believed in themselves and shown a bit more intent, Brazil would not have entered the Round of 16. Norway did what Japan couldn’t and sent the Brazilians, once a feared footballing unit, packing to Rio de Janeiro.
The Vikings Had Nothing To Lose Against An Ageing Brazil
I may be a bit harsh in my words, but the fact is that an ageing unit managed by an ageing Manager, could not stand up to the rigours and pressure from a rampant Norwegian side, which had nothing to lose. The Vikings already had their best World Cup and literally enjoyed themselves on the field at the MetLife Stadium.
Nyland Was Sensational For Norway
Ørjan Nyland, the big Norwegian goalkeeper, saved a timid penalty from Bruno Guimarães and then defended his goal in an incredible display of brilliant goalkeeping. Vinicius Jr or Matheus Cunha did not take the penalty, which surprised me.
Schjelderup : An Inspired Substitution
The first half was goalless, and Stale Solbakken, Norway’s manager, brought in 22-year-old Andreas Schjelderup in an inspired substitution. The young Benfica player was brilliant on the field.
Haaland Stuns With A Header…
In the 79th minute, Schjelderup played an inch-perfect centre to the waiting Erling Haaland, who rose and struck a powerful header, beating Alisson Becker to his left. The ball which came to Haaland was well-positioned but did not have the pace. Haaland generated that pace with his strong upper body to beat Becker. It was indeed a tremendous strike from the Norwegian.
… And Kills The Game With An Audacious Strike
Eleven minutes later, the moment arrived that really separated the two teams. Erling Haaland struck one nonchalantly from the edge of the box, just like that, beating Alisson Becker yet again to his left. The ball, with Haaland’s power, sped off the turf like a rocket. There was no stopping it. It was hit as if Haaland were in training. No fuss at all, just pure, composed striking. Norway had taken an unassailable 2-0 lead with just stoppage time to hold.
Neymar Gets A Consolation
Neymar, who was introduced in the 67th minute, scored a penalty in the last second of the game. It was a mere consolation, as the match ended with Norway winning 2-1 and making it to the quarters.
Not Smart From Ancelotti As Brazil Paid The Price
Brazil, with an ageing midfield and defence, were not up to it. It was too much for Vinicius Jr. The Brazilian gave it his very best, but he needed support, which never came. Endrick, the young, pacy forward, didn’t get a full game again as Ancelotti refused to try something different and outthink the opposition. On the other hand, Rayan got more time on the field and did not impress much.
A Heartbroken Nation
The Brazilians would be heartbroken. A country which holds football as dear as life deserved something much better. The team needs an overhaul, starting with the Manager himself.
Just Keep Rowing, Vikings
The Norwegians were superb and will face England in the Quarter-Finals. It is going to be a real test for the Vikings. But they have nothing to lose. They need to just keep rowing and enjoying their moment in the sun.
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