England enter their World Cup quarter-final against Norway on Saturday carrying once again the burden of six decades of waiting since their only title in 1966, while the Norwegian team arrives with great confidence led by Erling Haaland, one of the tournament's standout stars.

Haaland has scored seven goals so far, including two in the 2-1 win over Brazil in the round of 16, leading Norway to the quarter-finals for the first time in their history and in their first World Cup appearance in 28 years.

Although England appear more experienced in decisive stages, having reached at least the quarter-finals in three World Cups and two European Championships over the last eight years, the pressure remains ever-present due to fans' yearning for a new world title since 1966.

Norway are aware that this pressure may work in their favor. Midfielder Kristian Thorstvedt said his team 'doesn't have much to lose,' while Haaland tried to pile more pressure on the English side.

Harry Kane protests against Iranian referee Alireza Faghani's decision during the England vs. Mexico match (Reuters)

The 25-year-old striker, born in England, told journalists with a smile: 'I think there are clear favorites to win, and England are one of them, so I think you all should put as much pressure as possible on the English players.'

England's players know Haaland well after his four years in the Premier League, and the England squad includes five of his current and former Manchester City teammates.

Defender John Stones said: 'We will treat them with the same respect we show any opponent. We know their abilities, especially with Erling, but we have put in a great defensive performance so far.'

But Norway's success has not been solely down to Haaland and Martin Ødegaard; it has also been about the strong bond within the group. Midfielder Morten Thorsby said: 'There is very little negative energy within the group. We have been together for a long time and we spend a lot of enjoyable time together.'

In contrast, England also showed strong team spirit when they overcame Mexico with ten men in the round of 16, a win many described as one of their best in the World Cup.

But that victory came at a cost, with Jarell Quansah suspended for two matches after his red card, leaving manager Thomas Tuchel facing a defensive crisis, particularly at right-back.

England rely offensively on Harry Kane, who has scored six goals in the tournament, alongside Jude Bellingham's brilliance in midfield.

Thorstvedt said of England: 'They have a good team, but we have players capable of making a difference in important moments. That is the essence of football at the highest level. When two good teams meet, the match is often evenly balanced, and those moments decide the outcome.'