Miami: England considered favourites for World Cup semi-finals by Norway boss
11.07.2026
England are considered favourites to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup, according to Norway boss Stale Solbakken. The Three Lions are set to face Norway in Miami on Saturday, following Norway’s victory over Brazil in the last 16. Solbakken acknowledged England’s strong position but noted they are not overwhelming favourites.
Speaking at a news conference at the Miami Stadium, Solbakken suggested that England might be under more pressure than Norway. However, he also emphasised that his team places pressure on their own performance, believing that once the game begins, players do not focus on external pressure.
Norway’s Squad Strength and Strategy
Norway’s squad features significant talent from the Premier League, including Arsenal‘s captain Martin Odegaard and Manchester City forward Erling Haaland. Solbakken highlighted the historical significance of facing nations like Brazil and England in the World Cup.
Haaland has been a key player for Norway, scoring seven goals during their journey to the quarter-finals. This marks Norway’s first World Cup appearance since 1998 and their furthest advancement in the tournament. Their path to the quarter-finals included victories against Iraq, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Brazil, with Haaland consistently performing well.
The upcoming match has drawn attention to a potential direct contest between Haaland and England captain Harry Kane, who has scored six goals in five games in the tournament. Solbakken, however, stressed that the match is a team effort, stating, “It’s Norway against England.”
While acknowledging Haaland as Norway’s primary match-winner and Kane as England’s, Solbakken cautioned against underestimating other players. He noted that Haaland requires service, indicating that the team’s success is not solely dependent on him.
Emma Hayes, a football analyst, also highlighted the importance of cutting off service to Haaland. She described him as a dangerous player who is clinical and does not need many chances to score. Hayes noted Haaland’s ability to exploit defenders’ blind spots and his variety of finishing techniques, including one-touch finishes and powerful shots.
Norway’s patient build-up play was evident in their win against Brazil, where they maintained control and effectively used their wingers. Hayes also pointed out the benefits of their long-standing coach, Ståle Solbakken, who has been with the team for over six years.
Beyond Haaland, Norway possesses other players who can pose a threat. Antonio Nusa on the left wing has been in productive form, and Oscar Bobb has made impactful cameo appearances. Martin Ødegaard’s quality in linking play from midfield has also been noted. Norway’s ability to build from the back with a fluid and progressive midfield allows them to create overloads, which could challenge England.
Challenges and Expectations for England
Solbakken expressed admiration for England’s performance, particularly their 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico in the last 16, despite playing with 10 men after Jarell Quansah was sent off. He praised England’s ability to compete and defend, highlighting players like Jude Bellingham and Kane for their goal-scoring from strong positions.
The Norway boss also acknowledged England’s tactical strengths, noting how coach Thomas Tuchel positions key players effectively. He mentioned England’s options on the wings and the stability provided by midfielders like Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice.
Regarding possession, Solbakken does not expect Norway to replicate their 66.4% possession from the Brazil match against England. He mentioned the hot weather conditions in Miami, indicating that his team has been training lightly to ensure freshness for the upcoming game.
Hayes suggested that the quarter-final match could be a demanding encounter, potentially extending to 120 minutes. She emphasised that it would not be an easy game and might not be played at a fast pace, largely due to the sweltering heat in Miami, which will dictate the tempo.
England’s defence, with its pace, athleticism, and physicality, is well-equipped to handle Norway’s threats. Hayes advised England’s full-backs to prevent crosses and for midfielders to close down spaces to stop creative play. She also noted that England’s single pivot in midfield could create transition space for players like Bellingham, who has been performing exceptionally well.
The match is expected to be different from England’s win against Mexico. Despite the individual talent of England’s players, every World Cup game presents a tough challenge. England’s mix of experience and ability to overcome adversity, as shown in their win against Mexico, suggests they are well-prepared to go the distance in the tournament.
Thousands of Norway fans have travelled to Miami for what is considered one of the most significant football matches in the country’s history. Solbakken, who played for Norway in the 1998 World Cup, noted that the team’s run has united the country. He also paid tribute to his childhood idol, Kevin Keegan, expressing hope for the former England captain and manager’s well-being.
Solbakken recalled his regret that Keegan did not score against Spain in 1982, highlighting his admiration for the player. He mentioned watching Match of the Day in the 1960s and 1970s, where Liverpool, Keegan’s team, was his favourite. The quarter-final match is scheduled for Saturday.
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Source: bbc.com
Ishaan Kapoor
Sports correspondent covering cricket, football and international competitions.