Former Reading FC goalkeeper Orjan Nyland produced the performance of his career as Norway shocked Brazil 2-1 to book their place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
The 35-year-old, who made 10 appearances for the Royals during the second half of the 2021-22 Championship season, emerged as Norway’s unlikely hero with a crucial first-half penalty save from Bruno Guimarães before helping his side withstand sustained Brazilian pressure.
Nyland dived low to his left to deny Guimarães after Brazil were awarded a spot-kick following a VAR review, a moment that proved to be the turning point in one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.
The former Reading stopper went on to make several more important saves, including denying Vinícius Júnior and preventing a Kristoffer Ajer own goal.
After surviving Brazil’s early pressure, Norway struck late through star striker Erling Haaland, who scored twice in the final 11 minutes to stun the five-time world champions.
Neymar pulled one back from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time, but it proved only a consolation as Norway held on for a famous 2-1 victory and a first-ever World Cup quarter-final.
Nyland’s display was all the more remarkable given he arrived at the tournament having spent much of last season on the bench at Sevilla and is currently without a club after his contract expired this summer.
The goalkeeper admitted afterwards it was “the most important game of my career”.
“It’s great to be here in the World Cup, in the most important match in my life,” he said.
“I just have to thank everyone who has been there for me.”
Nyland joined Reading on a short-term deal in March 2022 under Paul Ince following his departure from
AFC Bournemouth and made 10 appearances before leaving for RB Leipzig later that year.
He has spent three seasons with Spanish side Sevilla and has made 59 league appearances for them.
However, he is now a free agent after his contact with Sevilla expired last month.
Norway will now face England in the quarter-finals, with Haaland’s side just two wins away from reaching the World Cup final.
