Can the Selecao Book Their Quarter-Final Spot?

Brazil and Norway meet in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with a place in the quarter-finals on the line, and while Norway have impressed to reach this stage, Brazil remain deserved favourites.

The Selecao have looked composed throughout the tournament, controlling possession, creating plenty of chances and showing why they are among the favourites to lift the trophy. Their squad is packed with world-class talent across every position, giving them the depth to change games even when things don't go according to plan.

Norway deserve huge credit for reaching the knockout stages and have shown they can compete against quality opposition. Much of their threat comes through Erling Haaland, whose pace, strength and finishing make him one of the most dangerous strikers in world football. If Norway are to cause an upset, it's likely Haaland will have a major role to play.

However, knockout football is often decided by experience and squad depth, and this is where Brazil hold a significant advantage. They are comfortable keeping possession, forcing opponents to defend for long periods and creating opportunities from wide areas as well as through the middle. Their defence has also remained organised throughout the tournament, making it difficult for teams to create clear-cut chances.

Norway are unlikely to sit back completely and should have moments on the counter-attack, meaning both teams could find the net. Despite that, Brazil's overall quality should eventually prove too much over 90 minutes.

We expect a competitive contest, but Brazil have the greater variety in attack, stronger midfield control and more experience in these high-pressure occasions. They should have enough to edge the game and secure their place in the quarter-finals