World Cup 2026: Erling Haaland and Gabriel feud goes global as Norway face Brazil

One of the Premier League’s most gripping individual clashes takes place around the world on Sunday as Brazil take on Norway in the World Cup last 16.

The irresistible power of Norway’s Manchester City striker Erling Haaland comes face to face with Brazil’s immovable object in the form of Arsenal defender Gabriel at New York’s New Jersey Stadium.

Haaland and Gabriel became central figures as their clubs battled for domestic supremacy, creating a rivalry that steadily turned hostile.

The outcome of their last meeting will play a big role in deciding whether it will be Brazil or Norway who advance to the quarter-finals where they will face England or Mexico.

Former England striker Chris Sutton told BBC Sport: “Despite the battles for the Golden Boot between big stars like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane and Haaland, there has never been a major individual duel. Now we have one on our hands.”

“This is the most remarkable individual duel of the World Cup so far and make no mistake, it will have a huge impact on the outcome of the game.

“This stands out because of the bad feeling we know exists between the pair. I’m sure the great actors have a certain level of respect for each other, but everything we’ve seen between them suggests they don’t really like each other.”

Former England captain Alan Shearer is also enjoying the clash between the pair, saying: “It will be a great fight because there will definitely be some action there.

“They don’t like each other, which is fine, you don’t have to like your opponent and we’ve seen them have conflicts before, so that’s definitely something to look forward to.”

The statistical oddity is made all the more intriguing by the fact that five-time world champions Brazil have never beaten Norway in four attempts (two draws and two defeats).

This makes Norway the only side the Selecao have faced but never won.