England enter the 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 appears more experienced in the 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' wait for a new world title since 1966.

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

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

The 25-year-old striker, born in England, said smiling to journalists: 'I think there are clear favorites 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's players know Haaland well after four years he spent 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.'

However, Norway's success has not been based solely on Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, but also on 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 have a very good time together.'

On the other hand, England also showed a strong team spirit when they beat 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 price, as Jarrell Quansah was handed a two-match suspension due to a red card, leaving coach Thomas Tuchel facing a crisis in defensive options, especially at right-back.

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

Thorstvedt said of England: 'They have a good team, but we have players who can make the difference in important moments. That is the essence of football at the highest levels. When two good teams meet, the match is often balanced, and those moments decide the result.'