England is absolutely the favorite to hit the World Cup semi-finals, according to Norway boss Stale Solbakken, even as his squad prepares to face them in Miami on Saturday. This isn't just some casual comment either; Solbakken, who just led Norway to knock out five-time world champs Brazil in the last 16, clearly respects the Three Lions, but he also knows his team isn't just showing up to roll over.
Norway's Unforgettable Ride Meets the Pressure Cooker
Norway's run to the quarter-finals has been nothing short of historic, their first World Cup since 1998 and easily their furthest ever. They've bulldozed through Iraq, Senegal, and Ivory Coast before that monumental win over Brazil, and Erling Haaland has been an absolute beast, dropping seven goals so far. But Solbakken is quick to point out that despite all that, the pressure dynamic shifts in this quarter-final clash. He thinks England carries more of it, though Norway is definitely putting pressure on their own performance. It's a classic underdog mindset, right? They've already made this a summer to remember, beating Brazil with a wild 66.4% possession to boot. That's not just luck, that's controlling the game against a powerhouse.The "Not Haaland v Kane" Narrative Is Exactly What We're All Watching
The buildup to Saturday's match is all about the goal machines: Haaland, with his seven goals, and England captain Harry Kane, who has six goals in five games this tournament. Solbakken tried to downplay it, saying "it's Norway against England," not a straight shootout between the two. But let's be real, he admitted Kane is "match-winner number one for England" and Haaland "is match-winner number one for us." You can't deny Haaland's impact, especially after he battled past co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in the last 16, even with a defender sent off. Solbakken is full of admiration for England, noting how Jude Bellingham and Kane score from "great positions" and how manager Thomas Tuchel has their best players in prime spots. He even highlighted England's depth on the wings, saying if one player isn't having a day, another steps up, with Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice steadying the midfield. So, get ready for an absolute battle. The winner of this quarter-final on Saturday night will face either Argentina or Switzerland next Wednesday in Atlanta, all leading up to the July 19 showpiece. You can bet Norway and England will be leaving it all out there.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.