The first goal may decide everything when Brazil host Norway in the FIFA World Cup. Brazil arrive on a three-game winning streak, unbeaten in seven, and have scored in 12 straight matches. Norway, for their part, have found the net in six consecutive games but have also conceded in each of those six—a cocktail that points to a contest with chances at both ends. Brazil’s opening tempo has been decisive. They win the first half in 57% of their matches, and when they lead 1-0 at home they close out victory 100% of the time. That gives the Selecão a clear blueprint: start fast, score first, and lean on an attack that averages 2.4 goals per home game. With confidence high and recent form superior to Norway’s across the last five matches, Brazil’s momentum is real. Yet Norway travel with a goalscoring threat to match. They also average 2.4 goals away from home and convert early advantages ruthlessly—when leading 0-1 away, they go on to win 66% of the time. Perhaps most intriguingly, Norway show rare resilience when behind: even when trailing 1-0 away, they still win 50% of their matches. In short, this is a team that does not fold. The last meeting ended 1-1, a reminder that margins are thin between these sides. While Brazil’s current trajectory looks brighter, Norway’s World Cup pedigree, by the numbers, has been stronger historically. That contrast sets up a compelling clash between present form and tournament know-how. Tactically, expect Brazil to push the line high and press for an early breakthrough, seeking to exploit Norway’s recent leakiness. Norway’s path lies in compact spacing, quick transitions, and set pieces—areas where their away numbers suggest real efficiency. The first-half battle will be decisive: Brazil win 57% of halftimes, Norway 50%, underscoring how even small swings can tilt the match. Prediction and implications: With both teams on scoring streaks and defensive vulnerabilities evident on Norway’s side, both teams to score looks likely. Over 2.5 goals is well within range, with Brazil’s home edge and conversion when leading pointing to a narrow Selecão victory—think 2-1—though a draw cannot be dismissed given their last meeting. A positive result here would reinforce Brazil’s resurgence, while a statement away performance from Norway could reshape expectations for the knockout picture. Key trendlines: Brazil unbeaten in seven; 12 straight matches with a goal; Norway scored and conceded in six straight; 2.4 goals per game for both teams in their favored settings; and a first goal that could carry outsized weight in a razor-thin World Cup matchup.