Brazil and Arsenal defender Gabriel has faced intense criticism from ITV's World Cup pundits after his defensive lapse allowed Erling Haaland to score a crucial header, sending Brazil out of the tournament. Norway secured a stunning victory, advancing to the quarter-finals where they will face England.
Pundits Unite in Criticism of Gabriel's Defending
Gary Neville, Ian Wright, and Roy Keane all expressed their disappointment with Gabriel's performance, particularly on Haaland's opening goal. Neville, visibly frustrated, said: "I'm fuming with Gabriel. He knows that centre-forward better than anybody. For him to stay five yards off him and go for a straight race on a header - with Haaland - absolutely crazy! I can't believe it."
Neville continued: "There's one man in the box. The advantage the defender has there is to go and block his run, block his run, get tight to him. But he's the best at that Haaland. Once he gets a run on you and he jumps, you've no chance, you're dead. And it's a brilliant header."
Roy Keane and Ian Wright Weigh In
Roy Keane echoed Neville's sentiments, stating: "Poor defending, he's not looking over his shoulder, he's got a run on him, ball into a good area and there's only going to be one winner." Keane added: "It's like we say about Kane, you know these guys are going to turn up. There's no doubt he was going to do the business, he's become more of a leader, that goal threat is always there."
Arsenal legend Ian Wright agreed with his fellow pundits, saying: "I can't disagree with you on Gabriel. What I'm surprised with is that he didn't look at him once."
Neville's Additional Critique
Neville was not finished with his criticism of the Arsenal defender. He elaborated: "I don't know how he didn't see him. He's about 14ft 2'. He's massive. And actually, he's sort of in a decent position, Gabriel, where he's side on. So you're just thinking, as the ball's about to be crossed, go and make contact, don't let him have a run. I'm surprised Gabriel, in this type of game, as prepared as he would be, knowing him as well as he does, hasn't done that."
Haaland's Performance Praised
Despite the criticism of Gabriel, Neville began by paying tribute to Haaland's match-winning quality: "He's a massive character, a personality, and sometimes it's said about these players that he never did it on the world stage - and that's now been removed. I'm absolutely delighted for him." Haaland scored twice to send Norway through, including the header that drew the ire of the pundits.
England Awaits in Quarter-Finals
Norway's victory sets up a quarter-final clash with England, who booked their place with a dramatic 3-2 win over Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. The match is scheduled for Saturday evening, and Norway will hope Haaland can continue his prolific form.
