Brazil had a disappointing run at the previous World Cup. Their qualification for this edition was also far from smooth: coaching changes and only 28 points from eighteen qualifying matches. It cannot be said that Ancelotti’s team has impressed in North America either. While after a draw against Morocco, they managed to convincingly defeat Haiti and Scotland with identical 3-0 scorelines, they struggled for a long time against a more organized Japan. Ultimately, however, they secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory with a decisive goal from Martinelli in the 95th minute.
Norway has not played in such tournaments since 1998 and, in general, had not qualified for any tournament in the 21st century. Only in last year’s qualifiers did they finally break through—winning all their matches, including beating Italy twice. They also made a strong start to the finals, defeating Iraq and Senegal with Haaland scoring braces. In the third round, Solbakken pragmatically rotated the squad, suffering a heavy defeat to France with the second team. However, the strategy paid off: they edged out Ivory Coast 2-1 in the Round of 32 thanks to a late goal from Erling Haaland.
The South American giants currently average 2.4 goals scored per game, conceding only 0.9. The Scandinavians are more spectacular: 2.3 goals scored and 1.4 conceded per match.
Previous Matches: Brazil vs Norway
At the 1998 World Cup, the Scandinavians sensationally won 2-1. Eight years later, a friendly ended in a draw.
Now, expectations are high for Vinícius Júnior and company to win. But this underestimates the nominal visitors—Norway will not lose (odds – 1.95).
Brazil vs Norway: Key Stats and Trends
Brazil has won six of their last seven matches
70% of Brazil’s matches end with both teams scoring and the average total goals per match is 3.3
Norway has won three out of four tournament matches
90% of Norway’s matches end with both teams scoring and the average total goals per match is 3.7
Brazil vs Norway: Probable Starting Lineups
Brazil usually lines up in a 1-4-3-3 formation (possible lineup): Alisson – Douglas Santos, Gabriel Magalhães, Marquinhos, Danilo – Fabinho, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães – Vinícius Júnior, Matheus Cunha, Rayan Rocha. Lucas Paquetá is unavailable.
Norway also plays 1-4-3-3 (possible lineup): Nyland – Wolf, Heggem, Ajer, Pedersen – Berg, Berge, Ødegaard – Nusa, Haaland, Sørloth.
