Brazil lost 2‑1 to Norway in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a 24‑year wait for another title. Erling Haaland scored both goals for Norway, while Neymar converted a late penalty for Brazil.
Controversy grew after the match when influencer Everson Zoio claimed Vini Jr. refused to take the decisive spot‑kick to protect betting odds. Vini Jr. later explained the decision was tactical, with coach Carlo Ancelotti having assigned Bruno Guimarães to take the penalty.
Ancelotti’s handwritten notes on Norwegian players’ penalty tendencies and set‑piece habits were obtained by German newspapers and publicised after the game. The documents show the Brazilian staff analysed the footedness of Haaland, Ødegaard and goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland.
Following the defeat, the squad dispersed across North America; only defender Danilo returned to Rio with the coaching staff, while the rest travelled individually to clubs or on holiday. Meanwhile, Vini Jr. is scheduled to meet Real Madrid officials in July to discuss a contract extension that could run beyond the 2026‑27 season.