New York [US], July 6 (ANI): Brazil nice Ronaldinho threw his assist behind the five-time world champions forward of their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 conflict in opposition to Norway, as head coach Carlo Ancelotti named Gabriel Martinelli and teenage ahead Rayan within the beginning XI for the knockout encounter at MetLife Stadium.
Sharing a submit on X earlier than kick-off, Ronaldinho wrote, ‘Another decisive match! Good luck and let’s go for it, Brazil!’
Ancelotti retained religion in Martinelli, whose stoppage-time winner in opposition to Japan secured Brazil’s place within the final 16, whereas 19-year-old Rayan stored his place alongside Vinicius Jr and Matheus Cunha in assault. Raphinha and Neymar, who’re coming back from accidents, had been named among the many substitutes.
Brazil’s beginning XI featured Alisson in objective, with Danilo, Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos and Douglas Santos forming the again 4. Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes anchored the midfield, whereas Martinelli operated on the left of Ancelotti’s diamond behind the entrance three of Matheus Cunha, Rayan and Vinicius Jr.
Norway, in the meantime, welcomed Julian Ryerson again into the aspect after he missed the Round of 32 victory over Ivory Coast, changing Marcus Holmgren Pedersen. Captain Martin Odegaard marshalled the midfield, whereas Erling Haaland spearheaded the Scandinavian aspect’s assault alongside Alexander Sorloth and Antonio Nusa.
Brazil reached the Round of 16 after topping Group C on objective distinction with seven factors earlier than surviving a serious scare in opposition to Japan within the earlier spherical. The Selecao got here from behind to register a dramatic 2-1 victory, with Martinelli scoring the stoppage-time winner. It was Brazil’s first World Cup knockout win after trailing since their quarter-final overcome England in 2002.
Despite their pedigree, Brazil entered the competition cautious of their latest report in opposition to European opposition, having misplaced every of their final six post-group stage World Cup matches in opposition to groups from Europe.
Norway arrived stuffed with confidence after recording the nation’s first-ever World Cup knockout victory by defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 within the Round of 32. Stale Solbakken’s males had already secured qualification from Group I earlier than rotating closely of their last group match and have gained 15 of their final 20 internationals.
History additionally favoured the Norwegians heading into the competition. They are unbeaten in all 4 earlier conferences with Brazil, successful twice and drawing twice, together with a memorable 2-1 victory on the 1998 FIFA World Cup. (ANI)