Stale Solbakken backs Norway to challenge Brazil despite Carlo Ancelotti praise

Following Norway's 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast, a video released by the Norwegian Football Federation showed Solbakken ending his post-match team talk by saying: "Carlo Ancelotti, we are coming for you!" The clip quickly attracted attention before Sunday's knockout clash.

Speaking to reporters, Solbakken said the comment was simply a joke and should not be taken seriously.

"It was as far from provoking as possible," he said. "He is maybe the greatest coach in the history of European football, together with Guardiola, Mourinho and one or two others from a historical perspective."

The Norway boss revealed he had met Ancelotti several times during his time in charge of FC Copenhagen when facing Chelsea and Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.

"I have the greatest respect for him," Solbakken added. "He's a great guy with a great sense of humour, and we have the greatest respect for him and for Brazil as a country. I think they can see the funny side of it. It was not a very deep analysis."

Solbakken was part of the Norway squad that defeated Brazil during the group stage of the 1998 World Cup, but he believes that famous result has no influence on Sunday's encounter.

Instead, he expects a much-improved Brazil side under Ancelotti.

"I think Brazil are finding their feet and gradually getting better and better," he said. "They have strong players in every position, and we're looking forward to the challenge."

The Norway coach admitted Brazil deserved to be considered favourites to lift the trophy but insisted his players would not be intimidated.

"Brazil are favourites, of course, and they are one of the strongest candidates to win the tournament," he said. "But it is our destiny to meet them now, and we have to perform at our very best."

Norway have impressed during their World Cup campaign, with Erling Haaland leading the attack as they secured a place in the knockout rounds before defeating Ivory Coast to reach the last 16.

Despite acknowledging Brazil's quality, Solbakken believes his side have every reason to believe they can cause an upset.

"We are hopeful that we will give them a real match," he said. "We are not playing this game for fun. We are playing to win and reach the quarter-finals."

He concluded: "We have great respect for what the coach has achieved and for what the team has done so far. But on Sunday, anything can happen in football."

READ MORE: Folarin Balogun scores but sees red as USA beat Bosnia to set up Belgium clash