England enters the World Cup quarterfinal clash 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 most prominent 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 their history, and in their first World Cup appearance in 28 years.

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

Norway knows this pressure may work in their favor. Midfielder Kristian Thorstvedt said his team "doesn't have much to lose," while Haaland tried to increase the pressure on the English national 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 are one of them, so I think you all should put as much pressure as possible on the English players."

England players know Haaland well after four years he spent in the English Premier League, and the English national team 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 not been based solely on Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, but also on the strength of cohesion within the group. Midfielder Morten Thorsby said: "There is very little negative energy inside the group. We have been together for a long time, and we have a very good time together."

In contrast, 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 cost, as Jarrell Quansah was suspended for two matches following his red card, putting coach Thomas Tuchel in a defensive selection crisis, especially at right-back.

England relies 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. And that's the essence of football at the highest levels. When two good teams meet, the match is often balanced, and those moments decide the result."