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World Cup: Norway keeper Nyland describes Brazil’s elimination as best feeling ever after goal-saving heroics
06th July, 2026 10:28 AM
Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland was left lost for words, describing it as ‘the best feeling ever’ after steering his side to a historic World Cup Round of 16 victory over Brazil in New York.
The Europeans, on their return to the global stage after a 28-year wait, served one of the major upsets of the tournament, defeating the five-time champions 2-1 thanks to Erling Haaland’s brace.
“It is very hard to describe these emotions,” Nyland told FIFA. “It is such an amazing feeling. It’s the best feeling ever.”
The 35-year-old custodian also revels in the team’s unbeaten streak against the five-time champions that has since stretched to five games.
The veteran keeper came up clutch in the win, producing a superb save to deny the midfielder from the spot in the 14th minute. It marked Brazil’s biggest missed chance of the evening and proved costly as Norway grew in confidence.
Difficult
“We obviously had a goal of staying here as long as possible. We knew we were the underdogs; we knew it would be difficult but believed we could beat Brazil. Now we have beaten Brazil again. We have never lost against them in the World Cup, right? It’s incredible. We all know how good Brazil is and what they mean in the World Cup,” he said.
Huge achievement
“I am a bit lost for words because it is such a huge achievement. I am so happy for all Norwegians. We want to thank them a lot for all their support.
“Now we get to stay here longer, so we are very, very happy. This is the World Cup; it does not get bigger, and we are still here.”
On his penalty save from Guimaraes, Nyland credited his coaches for helping him prepare beforehand and also for possessing the mental fortitude to deal with the occasion.
“It all comes down to preparation; I have done my research. I have worked closely with my mental coach, who is an expert on this thing, and our analysts and goalkeeping coaches. It’s a big thank you to all of them as well.
“It felt great to save it and keep us in the match. It was lovely to be part of this victory. The best feeling was when the final whistle went, though!”
Ståle Solbakken’s side will now face England in the quarterfinal in Miami on Saturday.
