“He is very cunning”: Bruno Guimarães reacts to Haaland’s comments on

Bruno Guimarães, midfielder of the Brazilian selection, reacted calmly to Erling Haaland's comments according to which Brazil would be favorites for the knockout phase of the 2026 World Cup. The Norwegian striker made these statements on the eve of the duel between the two teams scheduled in the 1/8 finals on July 5.

Questioned by media picked up by Goal, via Caze TV, Bruno did not seek controversy and, on the contrary, analyzed the significance of these words. “He is very cunning in his statements. Haaland takes all the responsibility away from them and transfers it to us,” he explained, reflecting the idea that the Norwegian’s speaking out is a psychological game. “Honestly, I don't care much what other people say. Football is played on the field, 11 against 11. It will be an excellent, tense match. They also have their strengths. Tall players, they will try to cross. We have to be smart. Haaland is crafty. We have to be ready.”

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Bruno's statements highlight the mental and tactical dimension of this clash between Brazil, five-time world champions, and Norway led by its star center forward. Rather than entering into a war of words, the Brazilian number 8 reminds that the outcome will be decided on the pitch and that the Auriverde selection must anticipate the opposing assets, in particular the presence of powerful players capable of exploiting crosses and aerial duels.

This calm tone reflects the strategy of a Brazilian team expected to turn the corner: favorites on paper, they know that each knockout match requires maximum concentration and tactical adaptation. On the Norwegian side, Haaland is visibly seeking to gain psychological ascendancy before the confrontation – a process that Bruno Guimarães describes as “cunning”, but which does not seem to destabilize the Brazilians.

See you on July 5 to check if the psychology around the match will be as important as the play on the field. Until then, Bruno and his teammates insist on preparation and tactical lucidity to neutralize Norway's physical and offensive assets.