Norway Proves Its 'Natural Enemy' Status, Sending Brazil Home

The biggest upset and match of the tournament was undoubtedly the Round of 16 clash between Norway and Brazil. In a game held at the New York New Jersey Stadium, Norway defeated Brazil 2-1, achieving the historic feat of reaching the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time ever. This match was a showcase for the 'monster striker' Erling Haaland.

Haaland scored a precise header for the opening goal in the 79th minute, followed by a powerful low shot for a second goal in the 90th minute, sinking Brazil. Brazil's early penalty kick by Bruno Guimarães was saved by Norwegian goalkeeper Orian Nilan, which proved to be a painful moment, and Neymar could only manage to score one goal from a penalty kick just before the end of the match.

As a result, Brazil exited the World Cup stage earlier than ever since the 1990 tournament. Interestingly, with this victory, Norway recorded a total of 3 wins and 2 draws against Brazil, maintaining the remarkable title of being the only country that has never lost to Brazil in history.

England Quells the Surge of Host Mexico

Another thrilling match took place at the Azteca Stadium (Mexico City Stadium) between England and host Mexico.

The result was a 3-2 victory for England. In the World Cup, any score exceeding 2-2 is considered a thrilling match. Statistically, Mexico dominated with 67% possession to England's 33% and an expected goals (xG) of 2.02 to 1.55, but in football, it ultimately comes down to goals.

England's Jude Bellingham scored twice with a header in the 36th minute and a foot goal in the 38th minute, shifting the momentum of the match. Mexico kept the hope alive with a goal from Julián Quiñones just before halftime.

In the 54th minute, England's Jarell Quansah was sent off for a rough tackle, putting England in a dire situation with only 10 players. However, Harry Kane successfully converted a penalty kick, extending the lead to 3-1, and Mexico's Raúl Jiménez scored another penalty to keep the match tense until the end.

Ultimately, England held on to their one-goal lead with fierce defense, securing a ticket to the quarterfinals. With Mexico's exit, only the United States remains among the three co-hosting countries (USA, Mexico, Canada).

Messi Leads Argentina Towards a 'Back-to-Back Champion' Dynasty

Now, football fans are turning their attention to Argentina, led by Lionel Messi. The question is whether the defending champions can secure a second consecutive title and establish a powerful 'dynasty'—this is the biggest point of interest in the tournament.

The race for the Golden Boot is hotter than ever. Norway's Erling Haaland, who added two goals against Brazil for a total of 7 goals in the tournament, is in fierce competition with Argentina's Lionel Messi and France's Kylian Mbappé.

Messi is pouring everything into this stage, which may be his last dance, to defend his throne. As the Round of 16 concludes, the matchups for the quarterfinals and semifinals are gradually taking shape, and the games are becoming increasingly exciting.

England vs. Norway: This Saturday (July 11), they will clash in Miami for a spot in the semifinals. Personally, I have high expectations for England, which is aiming for the World Cup trophy after 60 years. This is a top match between the rising star Haaland and England's Thomas Tuchel, who must fill the gap left by Quansah's red card.

The United States is preparing for its Round of 16 match against Belgium, and there is great interest in whether the U.S. can write a new chapter in the quarterfinals and semifinals, upholding the pride of the host nation.

The drama of the North American World Cup featuring the world's best stars seems to be just beginning.

Currently, news reports indicate that the entire leadership of the Korean football team, including the president and vice president, has stepped down, and I hope they can move forward with a new image, leaving behind the painful past.