Neymar scores penalty after clash with Norway keeper as Brazil exits 2026 Cup

On July 6, 2026, Norway defeated Brazil 2-1 in the World Cup round of 16, with Erling Haaland scoring a brace. Neymar came off the bench, won a penalty after Casemiro was elbowed while contesting a header, and faced Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, who tried to distract him by saying he would save the kick. Neymar scored and replied, "Not to me! Not to me!". Nyland had earlier saved a penalty from Bruno Guimaraes after a controversial VAR review.

This incident matters to Nigerians because it highlights the mental battle in penalty situations—a scenario Nigeria has encountered in past tournaments. It shows that even star players can be targeted with mind games, emphasizing the need for psychological preparation alongside technical training for penalty takers. For Nigerian players, coaches, and fans, the takeaway is to observe how elite athletes handle such pressure, consider incorporating mental resilience drills into training, and stay focused when goalkeepers and shooters alike should anticipate and counteract psychological tactics in future matches.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/06/2026-world-cup-what-neymar-told-norway-goalkeeper-nyland/