Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has expressed confidence that his defenders require no special instructions to contain Norway's Erling Haaland ahead of their World Cup last-16 clash on Sunday. Haaland, who is in the running for the Golden Boot with five goals in three appearances at the tournament, will face familiar opponents in Brazil's Gabriel Magalhaes and Marquinhos.
Familiar Foes
The Manchester City striker and Arsenal center-back will resume their Premier League rivalry in New Jersey, with a place in the World Cup quarter-finals on the line. Brazil's other central defender and captain, Marquinhos, has also squared off against Haaland in the Champions League.
"Everyone knows how he works. I have nothing to explain to my defenders how to play against him. They've obviously played against him several times," said Ancelotti. "I don't think that there's such a thing as an anti-Haaland plan. I don't need to tell my players how to defend."
Midfield Disruption
Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who faced Haaland while playing for Newcastle, will play a key role in disrupting the supply lines to the prolific forward. This task becomes even more crucial with Lucas Paqueta ruled out through injury, forcing Brazil to reshuffle their midfield.
"We have to avoid the ball getting to his feet," said Guimaraes. "We do have to attack, but we've got to make sure that somebody stays on him, because with one ball, he can decide the match."
Extreme Heat
An extreme heat warning is in effect across the region, and while temperatures are forecast to ease on Sunday, the conditions are still expected to play a significant role in the match. The heat index in nearby New York City stood at 105F (41C) in mid-afternoon on Friday.
"I don't think anybody is used to that temperature," said Guimaraes. "This is going to be a very physical match. It's really important for you to have your squad on point, even the guys that come from the bench to be fresh."
Confidence Boost
Ancelotti felt Brazil's comeback win over Japan in the last 32 had given his players greater belief heading into Sunday's clash with Norway. "We have to play at our best level, but I think we are at a time when we can play at our best level because we're confident," said the Italian.
He revealed that Raphinha could be included in the squad, having missed the past two games with a thigh injury. "Raphinha is making great progress. He's not at 100 percent, but he might be on the bench to play a few minutes. He's recovering really well and fast, we're really happy. Raphinha is a very important player for our team."
Ancelotti also left the door open to Vinicius Junior and Neymar featuring together against Norway. Vinicius Junior has led Brazil's attack with four goals at the World Cup, while all-time record scorer Neymar has made just one brief substitute appearance following a calf injury. "Yes, Neymar and Vinicius could play together at some point, and I think they will," said Ancelotti.
