Football fans are anticipating a strong clash between England and Norway in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, as the English team seeks to continue its dream of winning a second world title, while the Norwegian team aims to continue its surprises led by its top scorer Erling Haaland.

England enters the match relying on its experience in knockout stages, having reached the quarter-finals or further in several major tournaments in recent years, yet its only World Cup title remains from 1966.

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In contrast, the Norwegian team is experiencing one of its best periods, having reached the quarter-finals for the first time since returning to the World Cup after a 28-year absence, thanks to the brilliance of Haaland, who has scored seven goals in the tournament, including a brace that led his country to victory over Brazil in the round of 16. Haaland stressed that the pressure will be on the English team, calling on the media to increase pressure on his opponent, and said jokingly: 'England are one of the main contenders to win the tournament, so I hope you put as much pressure as possible on their players.' England's players know Haaland's abilities well, after he spent four seasons in the English Premier League, and he also has relationships with current and former teammates at Manchester City, which gives the match a special character.

For his part, defender John Stones stressed respect for the Norwegian team, affirming that his team is aware of Haaland's threat, but trusts the strength of the defensive system that has delivered outstanding performances during the tournament.

The Norwegian team does not rely solely on Haaland, but has a cohesive group led by Martin Ødegaard, along with the collective spirit that midfielder Morten Thorsby considers one of the main reasons for success, stressing that the harmony within the team has clearly reflected on the performance in the tournament.

As for the English team, it has boosted its confidence after its exciting victory over Mexico in the round of 16 despite playing with ten men, but it will miss the services of defender Jarrell Quansah due to suspension, which poses a challenge for the technical staff to compensate for his absence.

Nevertheless, coach Thomas Tuchel relies on the experience of Harry Kane, who has six goals in the tournament, along with the remarkable brilliance of Jude Bellingham, to secure the ticket to the semi-finals.

Christian Thorstvedt, Norway's midfielder, affirmed that his team is not afraid to face England, noting that big matches are decided by details, and that Norway has players capable of making a difference in decisive moments.