Brazil was eliminated from the World Cup in the round of 16, losing 2-1 to Norway.
The Brazilian supporters, known for their pride, may not take this defeat lightly. Carlo Ancelotti had expressed concerns about Erling Haaland and the Norwegian team, preparing a strategy that included plans for penalty shootouts.
Journalists Discover Ancelotti’s Notes in Brazil’s Locker Room
Evidence emerged just two hours after the final whistle of the match against Norway, as journalists entered the Selecao’s locker room and came across Ancelotti’s notes. On one page, he had sketched out the corners of the goal that Norwegian players would target.
On another note, Ancelotti analyzed the behavior of Norwegian goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland during penalties, noting that he always dives and struggles to reach balls at half-height in the goal.
Additionally, he detailed which of his players should mark specific opponents during corner kicks. For instance, he designated Rayan to mark Haaland.
Brazil Failed to Even Reach Extra Time
Ultimately, Brazil’s efforts were in vain. Bruno Guimaraes squandered a penalty awarded early in the match, striking it lethargically toward the center of the goal, allowing the Norwegian keeper to save it easily.
Haaland, on the other hand, proved too much for Brazil’s defense, scoring both of the Viking’s goals. The first was a header from within the box in the 79th minute, following a cross from the left. The second came from outside the penalty area, a diagonal shot into the bottom left corner in the 90th minute.
Neymar Contradicts Ancelotti’s Notes, But Too Late
Only in the dying seconds of stoppage time (90+10), veteran Neymar executed a perfect penalty kick awarded to Brazil. He defied Ancelotti’s notes by shooting low, leaving Nyland as a mere spectator.
However, his goal came too late, and he exited the New Jersey stadium—with a water bottle in hand—without a trophy. Brazil now waits for its sixth World Cup title, the last being in 2002!
