Norway has emerged as one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reaching the Round of 16 for the first time since 1998. Despite its impressive tournament run, the Lions’ official FIFA Men’s World Ranking remains unchanged heading into Sunday’s showdown against Brazil.
Led by Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, Norway now faces one of international football’s traditional powers with a place in the quarterfinals on the line.
What is Norway’s FIFA ranking ahead of the Brazil match?
Norway is currently ranked No. 23 in the latest FIFA Men’s World Ranking.
The ranking reflects FIFA’s most recent official update before the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup. While World Cup results affect a nation’s rating points, FIFA does not publish updated rankings after every match. Instead, rankings are released periodically using the organization’s Elo-based ranking system. (Bolavip)
How did Norway reach the Round of 16?
Norway finished second in Group I, behind France, to qualify for the knockout stage before defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 in the Round of 32.
That victory sent Ståle Solbakken’s squad into its first World Cup Round of 16 appearance in nearly three decades. Erling Haaland has been Norway’s standout performer, providing goals and leadership throughout the tournament, while captain Martin Ødegaard has orchestrated the midfield. (UEFA.com)
Norway faces its toughest test yet
Brazil enters the Round of 16 ranked No. 6 in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking and remains one of the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup.
However, Norway has reason for confidence. The Scandinavian nation is unbeaten in four previous meetings with Brazil, recording two wins and two draws. Their most famous victory came at the 1998 FIFA World Cup, when they defeated Brazil 2-1 in the group stage. (Reuters)
Can Norway improve its FIFA ranking?
Yes.
A victory over sixth-ranked Brazil would represent one of Norway’s biggest international results in recent history and would earn valuable points under FIFA’s Elo-based ranking formula.
Although those points are accumulated immediately, Norway’s official position in the FIFA rankings will not change until FIFA releases its next ranking update after the tournament. (Inside FIFA)
Norway chasing history
Norway has already exceeded many expectations by reaching the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Now, with Haaland leading the attack and Ødegaard pulling the strings in midfield, the 23rd-ranked nation has an opportunity to eliminate five-time world champions Brazil and book its place in the quarterfinals for the first time in the modern 32-team era. Coach Ståle Solbakken has urged his players to stay composed and embrace the occasion against one of football’s most decorated nations. (Reuters)
FAQ
What is Norway’s FIFA ranking?
Norway is ranked No. 23 in the latest FIFA Men’s World Ranking. (Bolavip)
Who does Norway play in the Round of 16?
Norway faces Brazil in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (SB Nation)
Does Norway’s World Cup performance affect its FIFA ranking?
Yes. Every World Cup match contributes ranking points, but FIFA only publishes official ranking updates periodically rather than after each game. (Inside FIFA)
Who are Norway’s key players?
Erling Haaland leads Norway’s attack, while captain Martin Ødegaard anchors the midfield under head coach Ståle Solbakken. (UEFA.com)
Has Norway ever beaten Brazil?
Yes. Norway is unbeaten in four all-time meetings with Brazil, recording two wins and two draws, including a memorable 2-1 victory at the 1998 FIFA World Cup. (Reuters)