Midfielder Casemiro broke down in tears following Brazil's elimination from the World Cup, admitting the team would be remembered as the generation that failed to win the tournament. Norway secured their place in the quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory, thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland.
Casemiro, 34, was visibly emotional in a post-match interview, stating, "We did our best, but we lost our dream... we disappointed all Brazilians. We will always be the generation that didn't win the World Cup." This defeat marks the longest period Brazil, a five-time champion, has gone without lifting the trophy since their last win in 2002.
Norway will face England in the quarter-finals in Miami. This marks a significant achievement for Norway, who had not previously reached the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Neymar Jr scored Brazil's lone goal from a penalty late in the match, but it was not enough to overcome Norway's lead. The 34-year-old forward also indicated his intention to retire from international football. Manager Carlo Ancelotti, whose contract extends to 2030, expressed his commitment to the job, stating the need to integrate young talent for the future of the Brazilian national team. "We have to think about it. It’s very evident that in the midfield we have to move some players. We need some young talent," Ancelotti said. He added that the team would use the defeat as motivation for the next cycle.
Ancelotti defended his decision to have Bruno Guimaraes take a first-half penalty, which was missed. He cited statistical analysis that ranked Neymar, Raphinha, Guimaraes, and Martinelli in that order for penalty-taking ability.
Erling Haaland, who has now scored seven goals in the tournament, celebrated Norway's historic advancement. "Maybe this will write in the history of Norway. Everyone just needs to enjoy themselves," Haaland commented. "This is just an insane day. It's one of the most insane days in Norwegian history. Just enjoy it, embrace it and enjoy the moment."
