Solbakken Backs England as Slight Favourites
Norway manager Stale Solbakken has labelled England as the favourites for their World Cup quarter-final clash, but insists his side are not mere underdogs.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Solbakken acknowledged the Three Lions’ pedigree while highlighting his own team’s historic run. “They are favourites, but they're not big, big favourites,” he said. The former Wolves boss also noted the pressure on England, adding, “I think England have more pressure than us. But we also put pressure on our performance. Once the game starts I don't think the players think about the pressure.”
The winners of Saturday’s showdown at Miami Stadium will face either Argentina or Switzerland in the semi-finals next Wednesday in Atlanta.
Haaland vs Kane: More Than a Personal Duel
Much of the pre-match focus has centered on the battle between Erling Haaland and Harry Kane, the tournament’s two most prolific strikers. Haaland has scored seven goals for Norway, while Kane has netted six for England. But Solbakken was keen to downplay the individual narrative.
“It’s Norway against England,” he said. “It's not a secret that Kane is match-winner number one for England and Erling is match-winner number one for us. But you underestimate some of the other players if you think that's the whole theme.”
Norway boast several Premier League stars, including Martin Odegaard of Arsenal and Manchester City’s Haaland, adding an extra layer of familiarity to the contest.
England's Tactical Edge and Norway's Counterplan
Solbakken was particularly impressed by England’s performance against co-hosts Mexico in the last 16. “I think the most impressive England game came when they were better than Mexico,” he said. “Mexico created very few chances and I think Thomas Tuchel managed to get their best players in good positions.”
The Norwegian boss pointed to the threat of Jude Bellingham and Kane, plus the depth on the wings, as key strengths. “They have several options on the wings which means that if one doesn't have the day, another comes in and does something good.” He also praised the midfield solidity provided by Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice.
Despite averaging over 66% possession in their stunning win over Brazil, Solbakken expects a different challenge. “No I don't [expect to dominate possession]. It's getting hotter. We have trained very lightly... It's all about being fresh for tomorrow.”
How to Watch England vs Norway
The quarter-final kicks off at 22:00 BST on Saturday, 12 July, at the Miami Stadium. UK viewers can follow the game live on BBC Sport, with full coverage across TV, iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. For other territories, check local listings as broadcast rights are held by various networks. Live score updates will also be available on 90min. football’s live scores page.
Key Takeaways
- Norway boss Stale Solbakken believes England are narrow favourites for the quarter-final.
- The tie is being billed as a shootout between Erling Haaland and Harry Kane, but both managers emphasise the team collective.
- Norway have already eliminated Brazil and are on their deepest World Cup run since 1998.
- England’s depth and tactical setup under Thomas Tuchel have impressed Solbakken.
- The winners will face Argentina or Switzerland in the semi-finals in Atlanta.
Quick Facts
Fixture: England vs Norway
Stage: World Cup quarter-final
Venue: Miami Stadium
Kick-off: Saturday 12 July, 22:00 BST
Haaland World Cup goals: 7
Kane World Cup goals: 6
Norway's last World Cup QF: 1998
