Norway vs England World Cup 2026 Quarter-Final Preview

The clash between Norway and England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises excitement as two strong teams battle for a semi-final spot. The match kicks off on July 11, 2026, at 17:00 EST / 22:00 GMT at Miami Stadium. Both squads feature some of the world’s top forwards, making this encounter highly anticipated.

Road to the Quarter-Finals

Norway has delivered thrilling football, exciting fans with dynamic play and loud support. Their run included a stunning 2-1 victory over Brazil in the Round of 16, powered by a brace from Erling Haaland. Norway’s five matches have seen 21 goals scored, reflecting their attacking style.

England faced a tough challenge against Mexico, playing over 40 minutes with ten men but still managing a 3-2 win. This marks their fifth consecutive quarter-final appearance at major tournaments.

Key Players to Watch

Haaland, the Manchester City striker, has been exceptional, netting seven goals in his first World Cup and holding an impressive scoring record both internationally and in the Premier League. His consistent goal-scoring streak includes 14 straight international games with goals, and a goal here would make him the first European since Gerd Müller in 1970 to score in his first five World Cup matches.

Harry Kane leads England’s attack and is now second in all-time England appearances, surpassing Wayne Rooney. Kane carries the hope of his nation after missing a crucial penalty in the 2022 quarter-finals. With 85 goals for England, he remains one of the most dangerous strikers worldwide.

Team News and Lineups

Norway may worry about full-back David Møller Wolfe, who was injured against Brazil. Meanwhile, England will be without Jarell Quansah due to suspension and Jordan Henderson due to a wrist injury sustained during celebrations.

Likely starting lineups:

• Norway: Nyland; Pedersen, Ajer, Heggem, Møller Wolfe; Ødegaard, Berge, Berg; Sørloth, Haaland, Nusa.
• England: Pickford; Spence, Guehi, Konsa, O’Reilly; Rice, Anderson; Madueke, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.

Statistics and Insights

• England has lost five of its last six World Cup knockout matches against European teams.
• In eleven of Norway's last twelve games, both teams found the net.
• The last six competitive matches involving Norway saw goals scored after the 85th minute.

Squads Overview

Norway has won four of their last five World Cup matches, only losing 4-1 to France in the group stage. Their victories over Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Brazil highlight their resilience. Across these games, they scored and conceded 10 goals each.

England won four out of five recent matches, drawing once against Ghana. They began with a 4-2 win over Croatia and followed up with solid performances, scoring 11 goals while conceding six.

Head-to-Head

The two teams met twice before, with England winning both friendlies 1-0. These encounters were tight and low scoring, contrasting with their high-scoring runs in the current tournament.

Group Stage Summary

Norway finished second in Group I, advancing past the group stage. England topped Group L, moving forward as group leaders.