06/07/2026 12:36 - Deportes
July 5, 2026 will be etched in global football memory. At the MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey, Norway achieved a historic feat by eliminating Brazil in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup with a 2-1 victory.
The star of the match was Erling Haaland, one of the world's top strikers, who scored both goals for Norway in the 79th and 89th minutes. Brazil, the traditional tournament favorite, wasted a golden opportunity in the first half when a penalty taken by Bruno Guimarães was masterfully saved by Norwegian goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland. Although Neymar scored a consolation penalty in the agonizing 90+10th minute, it wasn't enough to prevent Brazil's worst World Cup performance since 1990. Norway, on the other hand, advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time in their history.
In another thrilling duel, England defeated Mexico 3-2 at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. For those unfamiliar, the Azteca is one of the largest and most historic football stadiums in the world, known for its high altitude that affects players' stamina. The match had to be delayed by an hour (from 21:00 to 22:00) due to an electrical storm in the area.
Jude Bellingham ignited the game with two quick goals (36' and 38'), though Julián Quiñones pulled one back for the hosts at 42'. In the second half, Harry Kane scored a penalty (58'), and despite Jarell Quansah's red card and Raúl Jiménez's penalty goal, England secured their spot. A curious and concerning detail: Jordan Henderson got injured while celebrating a goal.
With these results, the quarterfinals gift us a spectacular showdown: Norway vs England. A match where Norway's defensive solidity and Haaland's offensive prowess will clash with the hierarchy and talent of England's Bellingham and Kane. Football fans are in for a true treat!
On July 5, 2026, FIFA announced an unprecedented decision: the suspension of a one-match ban for United States forward Folarin Balogun (25 years old). This allows him to play in the Round of 16 clash against Belgium on July 6, 2026.
The measure came after a surprising intervention: U.S. President Donald Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the direct red card Balogun received in the 64th minute against Bosnia and Herzegovina. FIFA applied Article 27, suspending the sanction for a one-year probation period. Balogun is the USA's top scorer with 3 goals. His coach, Mauricio Pochettino, celebrated the decision, while the Belgian federation and their coach, Rudi García, harshly criticized the move.
After an excellent group stage, Argentina (the reigning world champions from South America) is preparing for their Round of 16 match and will face Egypt this Tuesday. An exciting match is guaranteed! Go Argentina!
Alfredo S. Quiroga
