Norway defeats Brazil, triggering Asian soccer reform calls after World Cup exits

Norway eliminated Brazil 2‑1 in the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending the five‑time champion's campaign and marking Norway's first appearance in the quarter‑finals. The match, played on July 5 in New York‑New Jersey, saw Erling Haaland score twice.

Across the tournament, all nine Asian representatives were knocked out. Japan and Australia reached the round of 32 but lost, while the remaining seven Asian teams failed to win a group‑stage match, recording one win, six draws and 14 defeats. A Vietnamese newspaper, Lao Dong, argued that Asian football needs a "major surgery" and quoted regional coaches highlighting systemic weaknesses. The article noted recent resignations of federation leaders in Saudi Arabia and South Korea as signs of mounting pressure.

The dual setbacks have sparked debate over how to improve Asian competitiveness on the global stage.