Norway is back in the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 28 years. Coach Ståle Solbakken, a player on the 1998 squad, led the team past group wins against Ivory Coast and Senegal.
After the victory, Solbakken issued a direct challenge to his next opponent.
"Carlo Ancelotti, we're coming for you."
The coach later clarified the remark was a light-hearted joke with genuine respect. Brazil, coached by Ancelotti, will face Norway in the Round of 16 on July 5, 2026.
Star striker Erling Haaland provides Norway with a world-class attacking threat. Solbakken's tenure has been focused on rebuilding national belief after decades away from the tournament's later stages.