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Portugal vs Spain Clash: Ronaldo Faces Off Against Yamal

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Spain secured an easy victory over Austria in the Round of 32, while Portugal advanced to the Round of 16 with a hard-fought win against Croatia. On June 22, in Kathmandu, Portugal and Spain are set to meet for a place in the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The match at the Dallas Stadium in the United States will kick off at 12:45 AM.

Spain, the winners of Group H, have been in strong form during this World Cup. In their Round of 32 match, they defeated Austria decisively with a 3–0 scoreline, underlining coach Luis de la Fuente’s team’s aggressive and dominant presence. Notably, Spain has yet to concede a goal in the tournament. Goalkeeper Unai Simón has maintained a clean sheet for 519 consecutive minutes, breaking a 36-year-old World Cup record.

Portugal, the runners-up of Group K, faced a tougher challenge reaching the knockout stage. Against Croatia in the Round of 32, Portugal came from behind after trailing 1–0. Cristiano Ronaldo scored a crucial penalty and, in added time, Gonzalo Ramos headed home the decisive winner in a 2–1 comeback victory, securing Portugal’s place in the Round of 16. This match is viewed not just as a contest between the two countries but also as a generational duel between the 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo and the 18-year-old young talent Lamin Yamal. When Ronaldo debuted at the 2006 World Cup, Yamal was not yet born. Now, Yamal faces competing against a player twice his age on the World Cup stage.

At 41, this World Cup could possibly be Ronaldo’s last in his career. He aims to win the World Cup trophy late in his international journey, much like Lionel Messi. Ronaldo has already set a record by scoring in six consecutive World Cups, most recently netting twice against Uzbekistan. Spain’s 18-year-old winger Yamal, after recovering from an injury, has become a key player for his team, displaying his enchanting skills in the knockout rounds after limited playing time in the group stage. He has the potential to be a lethal player for Spain. Spain’s center forward Mikel Oyarzabal is also in excellent form, having scored four goals in this tournament and 17 goals in his last 16 appearances for the national team when playing in the starting lineup.

The outcome of the Spain-Portugal match is expected to hinge on midfield control. Spain’s duo of Rodri and Pedri will face Portugal’s Vitinha, João Neves, and Bruno Fernandes. Portugal’s head coach Roberto Martinez has emphasized a possession-based, defensive style of play. “Spain is a great team. Both teams need the ball, and we will control possession and play defensively. We need the ball to build confidence. I expect this match to be similar to a Nations League game,” he stated. Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente aims to impose pressure with fast-paced and high-intensity play. “We are two closely matched teams in every aspect. Whenever we lose the ball, we react quickly and apply high pressure on the opponent,” he explained.

These two teams have clashed 44 times since 1921, with Portugal winning 7 matches, Spain 19, and 18 ending in draws. Their most recent encounter was the final of the 2025 UEFA Nations League, which ended 2–2 before Portugal triumphed in the penalty shootout to win the title. In the World Cup, they last competed against each other in the 2018 group stage, which ended in a thrilling 3–3 draw, featuring a hat-trick from Ronaldo.

How to Overcome the Habit of Focusing on Your Spouse’s Weaknesses

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Marital life is not merely a legal or social relationship between two individuals; it represents a long-term partnership founded on trust, respect, acceptance, cooperation, and emotional closeness. In a healthy marriage, both partners should feel secure, valued, and accepted. In recent years, the influence of social media usage, the tendency to compare oneself to others, and unrealistic portrayals of relationships in films and series have impacted many people. As a result, many begin to focus more on their spouse’s weaknesses rather than their strengths. When individuals evaluate their relationships based on others’ lives instead of reality, dissatisfaction, disappointment, and stress in the relationship tend to increase. Indeed, many problems that damage relationships stem from unrealistic expectations and constant comparison.

The psychological theory that addresses this is called the social comparison theory. In 1954, psychologist Leon Festinger explained the human tendency to understand and evaluate oneself through comparison with others. While some level of comparison is normal, excessive comparison can be harmful to relationships. On social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, people usually highlight only the best, most attractive, and successful moments of their lives. Conflicts, financial difficulties, mental stress, family disagreements, or personal struggles are rarely shown. Consequently, many begin to compare these highlights with their own reality, which can make their own relationships appear less valuable or incomplete. A University of Pennsylvania study revealed that excessive social media use can increase tendencies to compare, leading to dissatisfaction and feelings of loneliness.

Unrealistic expectations are another significant problem. Many expect their spouse to fulfill all emotional, financial, and social needs after marriage. When reality does not meet these expectations, they start comparing their relationship with others. Friends and family can also influence by sharing their experiences, with comments such as “Her husband is so romantic” or “His wife always does this,” leading to dissatisfaction in one’s own relationship. People often seek a perfect partner, but the truth is that no individual is perfect. Everyone has strengths and limitations.

Comparison and criticism have numerous negative impacts on relationships. Self-esteem weakens. When a spouse is repeatedly compared to others, they begin to feel inadequate, which over time severely affects their confidence and self-worth. Emotional distance increases. Continuous criticism can cause a person to stop expressing feelings and to feel misunderstood or unaccepted, deepening emotional gaps. Trust weakens as acceptance is a foundation of a healthy relationship. If a spouse feels constantly scrutinized, compared, or rejected, trust deteriorates. Conflicts and tension rise. Repeated criticism, blame, and comparison can turn minor issues into major disputes. Relationship experts identify criticism, contempt, defensive behavior, and avoidance of communication as key indicators of relationship breakdown. Long-term exposure to criticism and comparison increases risks of stress, anxiety, inferiority, indifference, and relationship fatigue. Intimacy declines. Feeling continually criticized reduces both emotional and physical intimacy, which further weakens the relationship.

Who does the habit of comparison harm the most? Many assume that only the spouse being compared suffers, but research shows that the mental health of the comparer also deteriorates. Constantly watching others and making comparisons increases dissatisfaction, reduces gratitude and happiness, and heightens anxiety, stress, and dissatisfaction within the relationship. In other words, the habit of comparing undermines not only the relationship but also individual well-being and mental peace.

How can this situation be managed? Establishing open and respectful communication is essential. Instead of suppressing feelings, speak calmly and respectfully with your spouse. Saying “You always compare me with others” is less effective than “When you compare me with others, I feel bad and inadequate.” Do not consider social media as reality. The lives people show online are just a small fragment of reality. No matter how attractive others’ lives appear, they also face their own struggles and challenges. Focus on the positive aspects. Successful couples tend to have more positive interactions than negative ones. Cultivate habits of appreciating and recognizing your spouse’s good qualities, efforts, and contributions. Practicing gratitude can improve how you view your relationship. Studies confirm that gratitude practices increase relationship satisfaction.

Create your own standards for your relationship. Every couple is different. Some relationships may be strong financially, others emotionally. Some enjoy traveling, others prefer spending time with family. Thus, evaluate your relationship based on your own values and priorities. Spend quality time together. Taking a break from mobile phones, social media, and outside influences to share time can effectively improve the relationship. Cooking together, going on outings, reminiscing about old memories, or engaging in shared hobbies can increase emotional closeness.

Seek acceptance, not perfection. The foundation of a healthy relationship is acceptance, not perfection. Both partners need to learn to accept each other’s weaknesses. Instead of asking, “Why isn’t my spouse like others?” it is more productive to consider, “What qualities of my spouse strengthen our relationship?” Set boundaries. If the habit of comparison causes you ongoing mental distress, communicate this clearly. Mutual respect in a relationship is essential. Seek professional help if needed. If problems persist over a long period or communication does not improve, marital counseling or psychological support may be necessary.

Injuries Mar England’s Victory Over Mexico in 2026 World Cup

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

In a thrilling knockout stage match of the ongoing 2026 World Cup, England defeated co-host Mexico 3-2. However, the celebration was overshadowed as an England player sustained an injury. Midfielder Jordan Henderson suffered a serious tendon injury, confirmed by coach Thomas Tuchel. During the match at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium, Henderson fell to the ground after tripping over an advertising hoarding and was stretchered off the field.

Henderson, a 36-year-old midfielder from Brentford, had only featured for the final six minutes in England’s group ‘L’ match against Panama in this tournament. “Jordan [Henderson] fell to the ground and sustained a tendon injury. It is quite serious,” England coach Thomas Tuchel said during the post-match interview on Monday. “The injury is very complicated. Jordan cannot join the team at this moment, which is unfortunate for tonight’s situation. The doctors have informed me that he is currently hospitalized.”

Alongside Henderson, an assistant staff member of the England team is also unable to leave Mexico City on Monday. England will next face Norway. Their quarter-final match against Norway is scheduled for Saturday night at 22:00 BST in Miami. Henderson may miss the game along with Reece James, who is sidelined due to a thigh muscle injury sustained in England’s opening match. Additionally, Jarrel Consa, who received a direct red card in the victory over Mexico, will also be unavailable for the quarter-final.

Julian Quinones Scores for Mexico Against England in FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Julian Quinones reduced the deficit by scoring in the 42nd minute. Earlier, England’s Jude Bellingham had scored two goals within two minutes to give England a 2-0 lead. On June 22 in Kathmandu, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match, co-host Mexico fought back against England as Quinones found the net in the 42nd minute to narrow the gap. Previously, England’s Jude Bellingham had put England ahead 2-0 by scoring twice in quick succession.

The match, taking place at Mexico’s home ground, the Azteca Stadium, saw Bellingham open the scoring in the 36th minute with a goal from Bukayo Saka’s cross. Just one minute later, Bellingham doubled England’s lead with a second goal.

Warning Issued: Interfering with Democracy Could Spark Rebellion

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Kathmandu, 22 Ashad — Aren Rai, Member of Parliament from the Labour Culture Party, has warned that any interference with democracy will lead to rebellion. Speaking at a House of Representatives session on Monday, he stated, “If democracy is tampered with under the guise of constitutional amendments, there will be rebellion again, either against Singha Durbar or those rulers who sit in it.”

Before the elections, addressing a campaign rally in Janakpur, Madhesh Province, Balendra Shah (Balen) had expressed a commitment to strengthening the province. However, opposition parties have raised questions alleging that this promise has not been fulfilled since he became Prime Minister.

During the first general convention of the ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party, the report presented by Vice President Dr. Swarnim Wagle included the proposal to dissolve provincial assemblies, a move that the convention approved. Against this background, MP Rai suggested that constitutional amendments should focus on establishing a stronger provincial system and ensuring more inclusive rights. He recommended amending the constitution to guarantee 50 percent participation of women across all state institutions. Otherwise, he warned, attempts to tamper with democracy will provoke rebellion once again.

England Holds 2-1 Lead Against Mexico at Half-Time

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

The match between Mexico and England was delayed by an hour due to bad weather. On June 22nd in Kathmandu, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, England took a 2-1 lead against co-host Mexico in the first half. Three goals were scored in the first half at Mexico’s home Azteca Stadium, with England establishing the lead.

England’s Jude Bellingham scored twice within two minutes, putting the team ahead 2-0. Mexico’s Julian Quinones then pulled one back for the hosts. Bellingham opened the scoring in the 36th minute with a goal assisted by Bukayo Saka. Just a minute later, he netted again from a pass by captain Harry Kane, doubling England’s advantage. With these two goals, Bellingham’s total in the tournament reached four, having scored one goal each against Croatia and Panama in the group stage.

Mexico responded quickly, with Julian Quinones scoring in the 42nd minute to reduce the deficit. This marked Quinones’ fourth goal of the tournament. He had previously scored against South Africa, the Czech Republic in the group stage, and Ecuador in the Round of 32.

नेपाल-चीन सीमा स्तम्भ संख्या ५६मा पुग्ने यात्रा

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लाप्ची, बौद्ध धर्मको पवित्र केन्द्रको रूपमा प्रसिद्ध, धार्मिक र साहसिक ट्रेकिङका लागि एक प्रसिद्ध गन्तव्य हो। यो नेपाल-चीन सीमा स्तम्भ संख्या ५६को नजिक, डोलखा जिल्लाको बिगु गाउँपालिका-१ मा, गौरीशंकर संरक्षण क्षेत्रभित्र अवस्थित छ। काठमाडौंबाट लगभग एक दिनको यात्रा पछि, हामीले लामा बाघारमा विश्राम गर्यौं। अर्को बिहान, हामीले एक बोलेरो जीप बुक गर्यौं र थान्द्रुङ पुग्न तीन घण्टाको यात्रा गर्यौं। यो यात्रा रोमाञ्चक थियो, जहाँ तामाकोशी जलविद्युत परियोजनाको सुरुङ मार्ग, चट्टानी पहाडहरू, विशाल चट्टानहरू, मनमोहक चट्टान र पहाडहरू पार गर्दै गयौं। हाम्रो बोलेरो यात्रा थान्द्रुङमा समाप्त भयो, जहाँबाट हामी तामाकोशी कक्षमार्फत पैदल यात्रा सुरु गर्यौं। यस क्रममा, जलविद्युत परियोजनाहरूको निर्माण र चट्टानी भूभागमा खनिएका संरचनाहरूले यस क्षेत्रमा भइरहेको तीव्र विकासलाई दर्शाउँछन्।

Mexico Scores Second Goal Against England in Intense World Cup Match

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

In a competitive match held at Mexico’s home ground, the Azteca Stadium, Raul Jimenez scored a penalty goal in the 69th minute, leveling the score at 3-2. Kathmandu, 22 Ashar – As part of the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup 2026, co-host Mexico scored their second goal against England. During the game at the Azteca Stadium, Raul Jimenez converted a penalty in the 69th minute to bring the score to 3-2. England captain Harry Kane had committed a foul against Gutierrez inside the penalty area, prompting the referee to award a penalty to Mexico after VAR review. Jimenez successfully converted the penalty with ease.

Earlier, Harry Kane had scored a penalty at the 60th minute, giving England a 3-1 lead despite being limited to ten players on the field. In the first half, England’s Jude Bellingham scored twice, while Mexico’s Julian Quinones netted one goal.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s Son Mojtaba Absent from Memorial Ceremony, Sparking Speculation

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

June 22, Kathmandu – Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was notably absent from the memorial ceremony held ahead of his father’s funeral, prompting widespread speculation. At the mourning event on Sunday, Ali Khamenei’s other three sons – Masoud, Mostafa, and Meysam – were present. The ceremony also saw the attendance of President Masoud Pezeshkian, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Chief Ahmad Vahidi, along with other senior government officials.

However, Mohjtaba’s absence has fueled various conjectures about his health and status. Since being appointed as a successor in early March, he has not appeared publicly. Rumors have also circulated that he may have been injured during the recent US-Israeli airstrike that killed his father. Ali Khamenei served as Iran’s Supreme Leader from 1989 until his death in late February. The Iranian authorities have not offered an official explanation for Mojtaba’s absence. Nonetheless, international media outlets have cited security concerns and the possibility of injury from the attack as key reasons.

Reports from Reuters, Al Jazeera, the Financial Times, and other sources have suggested that the security apparatus may have barred Mojtaba from public appearances due to the risk of him being targeted by Israel. Reuters, citing various sources, indicated that Mojtaba could have sustained serious injuries, including to his face and legs, in the US-Israeli attack. Euronews noted that since Mojtaba’s appointment as Supreme Leader, his absence from public view has led some analysts to link it to sensitive security measures and the delicate nature of power transition.

Minister’s Attention to Sports Remains Insufficient

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Despite repeatedly expressing commitment to linking sports with education both policy-wise and legally, Sports Minister Sasmit Pokharel has yet to take concrete steps in this direction within his first hundred days in office. Kathmandu, 21 Ashar. Minister of Education and Sports Pokharel recently released a report detailing the ministry’s activities during his initial hundred days. In the report, Minister Pokharel successfully includes the KAVHA Women’s National League as one of the ministry’s achievements. However, the competition was organized by the Nepal Volleyball Association, with the minister attending as a guest.

Facing allegations of insufficient prioritization of sports, Minister Pokharel’s report lists 42 activities, of which eight pertain to the sports sector. These include the KAVHA Women’s National League and the annual President’s Running Shield competition, both cited as achievements. Additionally, the minister notes that training was provided to 60 individuals as coaches and treatment recommendations were made for 27 athletes, their families, and staff under contractual agreements. The special training for Mission 2026, halted since the end of Magh (January-February), resumed on Jestha 1 (mid-May), about two months after Pokharel assumed office, as mentioned in the report.

To enhance athlete capacity, 13 individuals received sports science training. The ministry also highlights participation of Nepalese athletes in national competitions organized by sports associations and abroad as an accomplishment. Although Minister Pokharel has expressed policy and legal commitments to integrating sports with education multiple times, no solid measures toward this goal are evident within the first hundred days, nor reflected among these achievements. Former Executive Member of the National Sports Council (RASHP), Kamal Bhattarai, says aside from the decision to send teams to the Asian Games, no substantial work is visible in the ministry’s hundred-day report.

“The President’s Cup and KAVHA Volleyball programs listed as achievements are routine events included in previous annual work plans. The new government has brought no innovation here,” Bhattarai stated. “There is no evident novelty in promoting sports.” Former Member Secretary of RASHP, Yubaraj Lama, echoes this view, emphasizing that apart from infrastructure development, no significant progress has been made in sports. “There has been no concrete work on amending the Sports Act or introducing a new action plan,” Lama said, “Although the minister’s responsibilities cover both education and sports, his attention seems to be focused more on education than sports.”

England Advances to Quarterfinals with Ten Men, Mexico Eliminated from World Cup

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Mexico, the host nation that had maintained a perfect winning streak without conceding a goal until the round of 32, became the second host team to be eliminated from the World Cup. Another host nation, Canada, had also exited the tournament by the round of 16. Kathmandu, June 22. In a thrilling match filled with goals, penalties, VAR interventions, red cards, and various exciting moments, England, reduced to ten men, defeated co-host Mexico 3-2 to secure their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals. England will now face Norway in the quarterfinal round.

Mexico’s elimination marks the second time a host nation has been knocked out, following Canada’s exit at the last 16 stage. The match took place at Mexico’s Azteca Stadium on Monday morning. For England, Jude Bellingham scored twice, while captain Harry Kane added one goal. Mexico’s goals were scored by Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez, each netting once.

Kane’s Sixth Goal Secures England’s 3-1 Lead Against Mexico in FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

June 22, Kathmandu – In the Round of 16 match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, England has established a 3-1 lead against co-host Mexico. The match, held at Mexico’s home ground, the Azteca Stadium, saw England captain Harry Kane extend the lead in the 60th minute by converting a penalty. Despite being reduced to ten men, England has maintained this advantage. This goal marks Kane’s sixth in the tournament, positioning him fourth on the top scorers list.

Kane previously scored two goals against Croatia and one against Panama during the group stage. In the Round of 32 match against DR Congo, he netted two more goals. This latest strike brings Kane’s total World Cup career tally to 14, making him the joint fifth-highest scorer in World Cup history. Due to adverse weather conditions, the match between Mexico and England started an hour later than scheduled. England’s Jude Bellingham netted two goals in the 34th and 36th minutes, giving the team a 2-0 lead.

Soon after, Mexico’s Julián Quiñones pulled a goal back. Bellingham then scored again in the 36th minute from Bukayo Saka’s cross, putting England ahead 3-1, and assisted Kane for his penalty goal just a minute later. Following his brace against Mexico, Bellingham’s total tally in the tournament has reached four goals, having scored once each against Croatia and Panama earlier in the group stage.

Trailing by two goals, Mexico reduced the deficit to 2-1 in the 42nd minute through Julián Quiñones, marking his fourth goal of the tournament after goals against South Africa, the Czech Republic, and Ecuador. Early in the second half, in the 49th minute, England missed an opportunity to score when Niko O’Reilly’s shot hit the post. In the 54th minute, Mexico’s Jesús Gallardo was fouled with a rough tackle by Jarell Quansah, who received a straight red card following a VAR review and was sent off.

Saudi Arabia Mandates Skill Testing for Nepali Workers: What Steps Will Nepal Take?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Following Saudi Arabia’s decision to mandate skill testing for Nepali workers in five different professions, a new wave of activity has emerged in the labor sector. Nepal, citing the need for some time to initiate skill testing, has requested the Saudi government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to delay immediate implementation, officials have revealed. Meanwhile, a labor expert has suggested that diplomatic negotiations with Saudi Arabia are necessary to advance the required preparations collectively. Some have expressed concerns that a rapid rollout of this process by Saudi Arabia could pose challenges for Nepal. Notably, Saudi Arabia remains an attractive employment destination, especially for unskilled and semi-skilled Nepali workers.

According to notifications issued by Saudi Arabia, Nepal is currently unable to immediately certify the skills of Nepali workers, according to officials from the Ministry of Youth, Labor, and Employment. “As per the current notice, we are unable to carry out the skill certification promptly. Therefore, we have requested a postponement, and a dialogue on this matter has been held between the minister and the Saudi ambassador,” explained ministry spokesperson Pitambar Sharma. It has been reported that there is an understanding on this issue between Saudi and Nepali private sector businesses. “This decision appears to have been made without sufficient consultation. The government also needs to deliberate on how to certify skills before sending workers abroad. For this reason, we have communicated formally with the Saudi side through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” Sharma clarified.

To date, no response has been received from Saudi Arabia regarding Nepal’s request, according to the spokesperson. An official highlighted that the government is focused on establishing skill certification arrangements through private entities based on ‘B2B’ (business-to-business) agreements between the two countries’ private sectors. “Such agreements must comply with legal frameworks. While certifying skills, it is also important to ensure that the process does not impose additional financial burdens on Nepali workers,” the official stated.

Saudi Arabia expressed satisfaction with Nepal’s announcement to conduct skill certification programs domestically. The intention of this initiative is to ensure that skilled workers meet the necessary professional standards required in Saudi Arabia. “This program will officially take effect on June 17, 2026, covering five professions initially and will gradually extend to others,” the announcement stated. The certification process will involve direct assessment, with a fee of 50 US dollars charged for each skill certification. “Workers must select one job category from the available options and then choose an appropriate location and date to participate in the assessment,” the guidelines provide.

Saudi Arabia has made skill testing mandatory for the following five categories of workers: load and unload laborers, wheelbarrow operators, construction laborers, and workers involved in construction tasks.

Labor expert Amina Paudel, who has been involved in Saudi Arabia’s reform initiatives, noted, “This step seems aimed at preventing allegations of labor exploitation at the international level.” She added, “If we do not accept these conditions, they might turn to other countries to recruit workers.”

It is imperative for Nepal to advance labor diplomatic dialogues and begin preparations in advance regarding the number and type of workers required. Such steps would also enhance Saudi Arabia’s trust in Nepal as a labor partner.

Skill Tests for Workers Going to Saudi Arabia: Which Trades Are Affected and How Is Nepal Responding?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Representative image of a migrant worker abroad

Image source, Getty Images

Caption, Saudi Arabia has continued to be an attractive destination for Nepali workers

The announcement by Saudi Arabia requiring mandatory skill tests for Nepalese workers in five different occupations has created waves in the labor sector.

Nepal has requested the Saudi government through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs not to implement the skill testing immediately, citing the need for time to initiate the testing process, officials said.

Meanwhile, a labor expert has suggested that Nepal should engage in diplomatic talks with the Saudi side to jointly prepare for the required arrangements.

Some express concern that an early implementation of this process by Saudi Arabia could create difficulties for Nepal.

Especially for untrained and semi-trained Nepali workers, Saudi Arabia still remains an attractive employment destination.

Brazil Fails to Defeat Norway for the First Time, Records Their Weakest World Cup Performance in 36 Years

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

An interesting fact is that Brazil has never managed to beat Norway in international football despite playing against 88 different teams so far. On June 22, in Kathmandu, Brazil, often regarded as a favorite to win the FIFA World Cup, was eliminated in the Round of 16 at the 23rd edition of the World Cup currently underway in North America. Even though they lost 2-1 to European nation Norway, Brazil’s tournament ended there. At the New York New Jersey Stadium in the United States, Norway secured a 2-1 victory over Brazil with two magnificent goals from Erling Haaland, reaching the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time. Returning to the World Cup after 28 years, Norway has made history with every match, while Brazil, synonymous with World Cup football, was forced to go home after the Round of 16.

This unexpected victory was surprising not only for Brazil but also for football fans worldwide. Brazil had set a goal to win the World Cup for the sixth time, adding a sixth star after 24 years, but this aspiration remained unfulfilled. Before this World Cup, Brazil had played four matches against Norway without winning any. Following their defeat in the Round of 16, Brazil has now failed to beat Norway in five matches, meaning they will have to wait longer to claim a victory over Norway. Interestingly, Brazil has only failed to beat Norway among the 88 teams it has faced globally. Conversely, Brazil remains unbeaten against 50 other nations. Brazil last won the World Cup in 2002, co-hosted by Japan and South Korea, and had hoped to replicate similar success this time.

Having secured its third World Cup title in 1970, Brazil won again in 1994 in the United States, 24 years later. However, since their 2002 World Cup victory, Brazil has faced increasing challenges at the tournament and has not reached the final since then. Although they made it to the semifinals in 2014 as hosts, Brazil suffered a devastating 7-1 loss to Germany on home soil and failed to reach the final. Their Round of 16 exit this time marks a further decline, failing to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in 36 years. The last time Brazil was eliminated in the Round of 16 was in 1990, when Argentina beat them 1-0 with a goal by Claudio Caniggia in Italy. This World Cup performance ranks among Brazil’s weakest; to date, Brazil has exited at the Round of 16 on only three occasions in the FIFA World Cup.

In the inaugural 1930 World Cup, Brazil was knocked out in the group stage, and in the 1934 tournament, although they reached the knockout phase directly, they were eliminated in their first game, the Round of 16. Brazil also exited at the Round of 16 in 1990, and now 36 years later, they suffered the same fate. In this World Cup, Brazil, placed in Group C, drew 1-1 with Morocco in their opening match, conceding early but managing to equalize later. Brazil then defeated Haiti and Scotland to top the group and advance to the knockout stage. In the Round of 32, they beat Japan 2-1, overcoming an early deficit by scoring two second-half goals. Against Norway in the Round of 16, Brazil paid a high price for failing to take an early lead. They were awarded a penalty early on, but Bruno Guimarães’ penalty in the 14th minute was saved by Norway’s goalkeeper Nyland, denying Brazil the lead. Despite Brazil’s defenders trying to contain Erling Haaland, one of the most lethal strikers in world football, Haaland emerged as the hero in the late stages. He scored his first goal in the 79th minute to put Norway ahead. Brazil pushed for an equalizer, but Haaland’s second individual goal in the 90th minute made it 2-0 for Norway. In injury time, Brazil earned a penalty, which Neymar converted, but it was insufficient to prevent defeat. Following this loss, Neymar, Brazil’s top international goal scorer with 80 goals, announced his retirement from football.