Norway and England meet tonight at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals at stake in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most eagerly anticipated quarter-finals.
The match, kicking off at 23:00 CEST, will also feature a fascinating battle between two of world football’s most feared goalscorers, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane. The winners will advance to face either Argentina or Switzerland in Wednesday’s semi-final.
Norway have already written history by reaching the quarter-finals for the first time and arrive full of confidence after eliminating Brazil in the previous round. Under Ståle Solbakken, the Scandinavians have combined disciplined defending with an exciting attacking style built around Haaland, while goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, Martin Ødegaard, Sander Berge, Antonio Nusa and Alexander Sørloth have all played key roles in their remarkable run.
Solbakken has only one major selection dilemma, with Sørloth and Andreas Schjelderup competing for a place in the starting line-up after the latter impressed from the bench against Brazil by providing two assists.
England, meanwhile, continue to grow stronger as the tournament progresses. Thomas Tuchel’s side overcame Mexico to reach the last eight and remain among the favourites to lift the trophy thanks to a squad packed with talent, including Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon and captain Harry Kane.
The Three Lions will, however, be forced into at least one defensive change after Jarell Quansah’s suspension. Ezri Konsa is expected to slot into the back line alongside John Stones and Marc Guéhi.
Much of the attention will inevitably centre on the duel between Haaland and Kane. The Norwegian striker has once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the world’s deadliest finishers, while Kane continues to lead England with his experience, composure and eye for goal.
With France and Spain already through to the semi-finals, both nations know victory tonight would move them within one match of the World Cup final. French referee Clément Turpin has been appointed to officiate the encounter in Miami.
