Ancelotti’s gesture wins Solbakken’s admiration

Norway coach Ståle Solbakken has revealed that Carlo Ancelotti sent him a personalised Brazil jersey after their Round of 16 clash, describing the Italian's gesture as "remarkable" following Norway's historic victory.
Norway stunned five-time world champions Brazil 2-1 on Sunday to reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time, with Erling Haaland scoring both goals. They will now face England in the last eight.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Solbakken praised Ancelotti's sportsmanship after the match.
"I can say that the generosity he (Ancelotti) showed after the game was extraordinary," Solbakken said. "Through a representative, he sent me a Brazil jersey with my name on it, along with a personal message. It was truly a wonderful gesture."
Ahead of the match, a video circulated on social media showing Solbakken saying, "Carlo Ancelotti, we're coming!" The clip angered many Brazil supporters, although the 58-year-old Norwegian insisted his comment had been taken out of context. Ancelotti's post-match gesture, he said, demonstrated that the Brazilian coach had not taken any offence.
Reflecting on Norway's historic win, Solbakken admitted he was too exhausted to celebrate properly.
"I told the support staff to celebrate however they wanted," he said. "I was so tired that I went straight to bed. Later I watched the match again, spent some time on social media and replied to a few messages. I didn't get much sleep, but I woke up feeling fantastic."
Asked about his players' celebrations, Solbakken said he trusted the squad to act responsibly.
"They make those decisions themselves. They have freedom, but they also have responsibility. That's always been the case. These boys know very well how to handle themselves."
After their memorable victory over Brazil, Norway's focus now shifts to the quarter-finals, where Solbakken's side will take on England in Miami next Saturday.

MMR