Erling Haaland's infectious grin has set the tone for Norway's party in Miami – and they're not packing their bags just yet! The goal-shredding sensation was caught celebrating on the team bus after dismantling Brazil, with a sing-along to a French dance track that had the whole squad dancing like nobody's watching. This is what 'never going home' looks like, as Norway's fairy tale continues deep into the World Cup.
Norway's laid-back yet laser-focused approach has been a key ingredient in their success story so far. From rowing longboats to Haaland's trademark 'soak-it-all-in' pose, this team is having the time of its life – and it's contagious! While many teams try to script destiny or rely on collective might, Norway's unbridled enthusiasm has been a masterclass in building momentum.
On paper, they shouldn't have beaten Brazil – but they did. And it wasn't just about Haaland's clinical finishing; Norway's tactical nous was evident from the start. Coach Ståle Solbakken's strategic brain trust paid off, as he expertly nullified Brazil's threat and then unleashed his attacking substitutes at half-time to maximum effect.
Against Brazil, Norway's data told a different story to their possession stats. They ranked fourth in 'big chances created' and fifth in 'expected goals' (xG) – not exactly the most thrilling metrics, but enough to suggest that this is no flash-in-the-pan outfit. Solbakken's got a Midas touch, having consistently defied expectations during his stint at FC Copenhagen.