England enters the World Cup quarterfinal match against Norway on Saturday once again carrying the burden of six decades of waiting since its only title in 1966, while the Norwegian team arrives with great confidence led by Erling Haaland, one of the tournament's brightest 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 quarterfinals for the first time in its history, and in its first World Cup appearance in 28 years.

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

Norway is aware that this pressure could work in its favor. Midfielder Kristian Thorstvedt said his team 'does not have much to lose,' while Haaland tried to increase the pressure on the England team.

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

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

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

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 been based not only on Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, but also on the strong cohesion within the group. Midfielder Morten Thorsby said: 'There is very little negative energy in the group. We have been together for a long time, and we have a lot of fun together.'

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

But that victory came at a cost, as Jarell Quansah was suspended for two matches due to a red card, leaving coach Thomas Tuchel with a crisis in defensive options, especially at right-back.

Offensively, England relies on Harry Kane, who has scored six goals in the tournament, along with the brilliance of Jude Bellingham in midfield.

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