England’s bid to end their 60-year wait for a FIFA World Cup title faces another big test on Saturday when they take on Erling Haaland’s Norway in the quarter-finals in Miami.
After a dramatic win over Mexico in the Round of 16, England head into the match as favourites. Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have been in excellent form, but their defence will face a huge challenge against Haaland.
The Manchester City striker has scored seven goals in his first four World Cup matches, including a brilliant brace against Brazil that helped Norway reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.
Despite Norway’s impressive run, Haaland believes the pressure is firmly on England.
“There are some clear favourites in this tournament, and England are one of them,” Haaland told reporters.
“I think all of you should put every bit of pressure on the England players.”
Playing in their first World Cup in 28 years, Norway have already exceeded expectations. Before the tournament, a team photo of the squad dressed as Vikings in front of longships went viral, and their fans have continued the Viking theme by celebrating every victory with the famous Viking row.
Haaland led the celebrations after Norway’s historic win over Brazil.
“Playing Brazil was already special for us, and then beating them to set up a World Cup quarter-final against England in the USA makes it even more memorable,” he said.
“If you see the celebrations back home in Norway, you’ll understand this isn’t something we’re used to. It’s a very special moment.”
England, meanwhile, are appearing in their third straight World Cup quarter-final. They booked their place with an unforgettable 3-2 victory over Mexico, despite playing part of the second half with 10 men.
Although England have not won a major trophy since lifting the World Cup in 1966, this generation has consistently gone deep in major tournaments. They have finished runners-up at the last two European Championships and also reached the semi-finals and quarter-finals of the previous two World Cups.
“We’ve been in this position before,” England winger Bukayo Saka said.
“But the team that plays better on the day will win, and that’s what we’re focused on.”
Kane and Bellingham have led England’s attack, combining for 10 of the team’s 11 goals in the tournament.
England’s main concern is in defence. Jarell Quansah will miss the match after receiving a two-game suspension following his red card in the Round of 16. Reece James is also a doubt because of a hamstring injury, which could force manager Thomas Tuchel to reshuffle his backline.
The weather could also play a major role, with hot and humid conditions expected in Miami. England have mostly avoided such conditions so far, with several of their matches played in rain or inside air-conditioned stadiums.
