Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily ahead of England's 2026 World Cup quarter-final against Norway, manager Thomas Tuchel insisted his side still have "another gear" to find, while captain Harry Kane highlighted the squad's tournament experience as a decisive factor. Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson joined host John Murray to assess the Three Lions' chances, drawing a direct comparison between Kane and Norwegian striker Erling Haaland.
Tuchel's Rallying Cry
In an exclusive interview with Murray, Tuchel did not shy away from the need for improvement despite England reaching the last eight. "We are not yet at the same level as we were in qualifying," Tuchel admitted, referencing a dominant campaign that saw them top their group. "This team has another gear. We have not shown our best football yet, but knockout tournaments are about timing your peak."
The German tactician, who has won major honours at club level, stressed that his own experience in high-stakes matches could make the difference. "At this stage of a tournament, it is about small details and emotional control. I have been here before and I know how to guide players through these moments," he said. Tuchel hinted at potential tactical tweaks but remained coy, stating only that England must "impose our game and not let Norway dictate the tempo."
Kane Draws on Experience
Harry Kane, fresh from the high of a dramatic round-of-16 win over Mexico, echoed his manager's sentiment. "The Mexico game gave us huge belief because we had to dig deep," Kane explained. "When you've been at these tournaments before, you understand that it's not always going to be pretty. You need to find a way to win."
The England captain, now in his third World Cup, believes the squad's collective experience is a weapon. "So many of us have played in huge knockout matches—for our clubs and for England. We know how to handle the pressure. That could be the difference against Norway, a very good side but one without quite the same depth of tournament history." Kane also played down direct comparisons with Haaland, calling him "a world-class striker" but adding that "the match will be won by the team that executes its plan, not by individuals."
Robinson's Verdict: Kane vs Haaland and England's All-Round Strength
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson offered a detailed tactical breakdown, praising both strikers but ultimately giving England the edge as a collective. "Haaland is a phenomenal goal-scorer, but Kane offers more in build-up play and leadership," Robinson observed. "When you look at the whole XI, England have more proven performers in key positions. Our midfield and defensive depth is superior."
"If the game becomes a battle of strikers, it might be tight, but over 90 minutes, England's all-round quality should prevail," Robinson told Football Daily.
Robinson also singled out Kane's influence as a "superhero character" within the squad, noting how his very presence lifts those around him. "He's not just about goals. He sets the standard in training, he speaks when it matters, and he never hides. That's priceless in a World Cup quarter-final."
Key Takeaways
- Tuchel believes England have not yet hit top form and will need to find "another gear" to beat Norway.
- Kane emphasises tournament experience could be decisive, with many England players used to high-pressure knockout games.
- Paul Robinson argues England's all-round squad depth gives them the edge over a Norway side heavily reliant on Haaland.
- The match is finely poised, but England's collective tournament history is seen as a potential trump card.
- Full analysis aired on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily, with kick-off set for Sunday.
Quick Facts
Fixture: England vs Norway – 2026 World Cup quarter-final
Date & Time: Sunday, 12 July 2026, 20:00 BST
Venue: MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey
Broadcast: Live on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds (UK); TV coverage on BBC One and ITV1
England's Route: Round of 16: 2-1 win vs Mexico (aet)
Norway's Route: Round of 16: 3-0 win vs Costa Rica
Key Players: Harry Kane (England), Erling Haaland (Norway)