Norway head coach Ståle Solbakken revealed on Saturday how his team plans to contain Vinícius Júnior, while admitting it would still be "a surprise" if the Vikings managed to eliminate Brazil in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16.

Norway's Game Plan to Stop Vinícius Júnior

"Vinícius is a dancer who can dance with the ball," Solbakken said of the Real Madrid star during his pre-match press conference at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The Norwegian manager described Brazil's No. 7 as a "physical phenomenon" and acknowledged that the winger—who has recorded four goals and one assist at this World Cup—is a nightmare for opposing coaches.

To limit Vinícius' impact, Solbakken stressed the importance of constant defensive support.

"We'll be helping each other and providing cover between players," he explained, emphasizing that his full-backs and wing-backs must avoid leaving Vinícius isolated in one-on-one situations.

Brazil's Attack Is More Than Just Vinícius

Solbakken made it clear that Norway's defensive focus extends beyond Vinícius.

He highlighted the pace of Brazil's expected front three—Vinícius Júnior, Matheus Cunha, and Rayan—while also praising the attacking depth available to head coach Carlo Ancelotti, specifically mentioning Endrick as another dangerous option off the bench.

Norway also plans to capitalize on set pieces, hoping to use its height advantage against the five-time world champions.

"We can hurt Brazil if we have our day," Solbakken said.

Norway Is Ready for a Penalty Shootout

The Norwegian boss confirmed his squad has prepared for every scenario, including a possible penalty shootout if Sunday's match remains level after extra time.

According to Solbakken, the team has already decided which five players will take penalties if needed.

Solbakken Clarifies His Comments About Carlo Ancelotti

Asked about his viral post-match rallying cry after Norway eliminated Ivory Coast, when he shouted, "Ancelotti, we're coming for you," Solbakken insisted the remark was intended as praise rather than disrespect.

"He is one of the greatest coaches in the history of European football, perhaps the greatest, with five Champions League titles and league championships in all five major European leagues," Solbakken said of Ancelotti.

He also praised the Italian's professionalism and sportsmanship.

"The way he treats opponents and conducts himself in football is a model for all of us. It's excellent for the game that Ancelotti has taken charge of the most important national team in football history."

Norway's Unbeaten Record Against Brazil

Solbakken also joked about Norway's surprising unbeaten record against Brazil, which includes two wins and two draws between 1988 and 2006.

"We've refused to play friendlies against them for 20 years so we can keep saying they've never beaten us," he said with a smile.

Brazil and Norway will meet Sunday at MetLife Stadium with a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals on the line.

The Norwegian coach expects challenging conditions because of the afternoon kickoff.

"It will be incredibly hot," Solbakken said of the 4:00 p.m. ET start.

Still, he expressed confidence in his team's physical condition.

"The heat hasn't affected us at all. We're full of energy."

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