Brazil v Norway: World Cup predictions, best bets and odds

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After knocking out Japan in dramatic fashion, Brazil now face a Norway side buoyed by Erling Haaland in this World Cup round of 16 clash.

Brazil made it into the round of 16 after a hard-fought 2-1 win over Japan. Carlo Ancelotti's side had to be patient, though, and found the winning goal in stoppage time, with Gabriel Martinelli coming off the bench to seal the result.

And you can take the result one of two ways. It either highlights the depth of the Brazilian squad; or it shows the Seleção still have some serious issues to address in the knockout stages. 

Neymar was once again at the centre of debate, but his involvement still requires caution, especially due to fitness and match sharpness concerns.

Another player under the spotlight is Endrick. The striker has played a secondary role at the World Cup, coming on in some matches, but remains confident in Ancelotti's decisions and is seen as an option to change games in the second half.

Norway, meanwhile, come into this match on a high after qualifying against Ivory Coast. They won 2-1, with Erling Haaland once again decisive. The number 9 is the main threat to the Brazilian defence and turns this clash into a real test for Brazil's back line, which features Gabriel Magalhães for this now familiar duel – something we've seen in the Premier League whenever Manchester City face Arsenal.

At the same time, there are concerns about the physical condition of Norway's key players. Haaland and Martin Ødegaard have both had long seasons and have reached the knockouts showing signs of fatigue, although they are still expected to start.

Ståle Solbakken's side know they are not favourites, but they have clear strengths: physical power, aerial threat, quick transitions, as well as one of the most lethal finishers in world football.

Brazil v Norway predictions

Brazil to win – 4/5 (bet365)

Both teams to score – Yes – odds 4/6 (bet365)

Brazil to win and over 2.5 goals – odds 6/4 (bet365)

Odds courtesy of bet365 for this match. Odds correct at time of publication and subject to change.

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Favourites, but with caveats

Brazil go in as favourites, but shouldn't expect an easy game. The win over Japan showed their ability to react, squad depth and good options on the bench, but also made it clear that the Seleção can still struggle against organised teams capable of exploiting space between the lines, especially in front of the defence.

Ancelotti has a more technical and deeper squad than Norway. Even without relying on Neymar from the start, Brazil have players who can make the difference at any moment, such as Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha, or alternatives from the bench like Martinelli and Endrick.

Norway, on the other hand, have less collective repertoire, but possess some very dangerous weapons. Haaland is obviously a constant threat in the box, while Ødegaard can pick out passes between the lines if given time.

Still, in a knockout match, Brazil's greater attacking variety and experience in major tournaments should tip the balance in their favour.

Prediction: Brazil to win – 4/5 (bet365)

Explanation: The bet will win if Brazil win the match, regardless of the final score.

Haaland changes the market

Unlike other Brazil matches at this World Cup, betting against the opposition scoring looks riskier here. Norway have in Haaland one of the competition's biggest individual threats, especially with crosses, quick attacks and first-time finishes.

Even if Brazil dominate possession and control the game, it's unlikely they'll be able to completely nullify the Norwegian striker for the full 90 minutes. Ødegaard's presence also increases the risk, as the midfielder can speed up play and find passes to put Haaland in on goal.

For Brazil, there should also be plenty of chances. Norway are unlikely to defend deep for the entire match, especially if they fall behind. That's why the both teams to score market looks an interesting option for a match where Brazil are favourites, but the threat from the other side is real.

Prediction: Both teams to score 'Yes' – 4/6 (bet365)

Explanation: The bet wins if Brazil and Norway score at least one goal each in the match.

Plenty of goals expected

The combination of a Brazil win and over 2.5 goals fits well with this match. Brazil have more technical quality, more options on the bench and should create enough chances to win, but Norway have the attacking power to make things uncomfortable.

Brazil have already shown they may need to work hard to overcome physical and organised opponents, especially if their defence has to "run back" to stop counter-attacks.

At the same time, bringing on players like Martinelli and Endrick, or even Neymar and Igor Thiago, could increase the intensity in the second half, especially if either side needs to push for a goal.

Norway also don't look like a team set up for a low-scoring match. With Haaland as the focal point, Ødegaard pulling the strings and good physical presence in the box, the Europeans should have their moments of danger, even if they spend spells without the ball.

Rather than betting on a specific player, the combined market values Brazil's favouritism and the possibility of a more open game.

Prediction: Brazil to win and over 2.5 goals – odds 2.75 (bet365)

Explanation: The bet wins if Brazil win and the match ends with three or more goals in total, regardless of which team scores them.

Brazil v Norway match odds

Brazil: 4/5 (bet365)

Draw: 27/10 (bet365)

Norway: 10/3 (bet365)