Norway’s joyride continues into the last eight
Erling Haaland saves his best content for Snapchat. Fresh from his two-goal demolition of Brazil in the last 16 of the World Cup, the Manchester City striker posted clips of a delirious team bus party. Staggering down the aisle, he sang along to a forgotten summer hit by French DJ Kungs, whose chorus runs: “We are never going home.”
Norway might head home soon – perhaps as early as Saturday, when they face England in a quarter-final in Miami – but there is no doubt that Ståle Solbakken’s side are making the most of their American adventure. From rowing a longboat in ceremony, to collecting cowboy gear (complete with a “Y’all can kiss my Dallas” T‑shirt), to Haaland’s theatrical hands‑on‑hips, eyes‑to‑the‑horizon pose, they have captured the tournament’s spirit.
Haaland carries Norwegian hopes
The 25‑year‑old forward has been the tournament’s talisman, scoring in every game and leading a vibrant Norway side that has played with smiles on its face. The win over Brazil was a seismic result – Haaland’s header opened the scoring before a second‑half penalty sealed a famous victory. His relentless form has not only fired his country into uncharted territory but also placed him alongside legends in international scoring streaks.
Solbakken’s men are a tight‑knit group, and the atmosphere has spilled over onto social media. The party on the bus after toppling one of the favourites was a genuine outpouring of joy, not choreographed PR. “We are enjoying it,” Haaland had said earlier in the tournament. “That’s what football is about.”
England under pressure after Mexico thriller
England, meanwhile, are preparing after their own epic. John Stones, who played four seasons with Haaland at Manchester City, came off the bench to help a 10‑man side preserve a 3‑2 win over Mexico. Stones admitted he hadn’t realised Norway had already advanced before England’s game, but he will know exactly what awaits him in Miami.
“Everyone’s pumped up,” Stones said. “We know how big this is. Erling is a top, top player, but we’ll focus on ourselves.” England’s defensive plans could be disrupted, however: the FA is considering an appeal against the red card shown to defender Jarell Quansah, who was dismissed for a high challenge. Should the ban stand, manager Thomas Tuchel will be forced to reshuffle his back line against Norway’s free‑scoring attack.
Key Takeaways
- Norway’s infectious team spirit and Erling Haaland’s relentless scoring have made them the story of the tournament so far.
- Haaland’s brace against Brazil underlined his status as one of the world’s deadliest strikers and extended his record‑breaking scoring streak.
- England enter the quarter‑final after a draining, emotional win over Mexico and face possible suspension of key defender Jarell Quansah.
- The clash in Miami is set to be a high‑octane, emotionally charged encounter between two sides brimming with confidence.
- Defensive discipline and set‑pieces could prove decisive, with Stones’ inside knowledge of Haaland a potential advantage for England.
Quick Facts
Fixture: Norway vs England – World Cup quarter‑final
Date: Saturday, 11 July 2026
Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, USA
Kick‑off: TBC
Broadcast: Not yet confirmed for all territories – check local listings