England’s Quality Can End Norway’s Dream Run
England have shown the character and quality required to survive difficult knockout matches, and the Three Lions are backed to overcome Norway and reach the World Cup semi-finals. Norway’s attacking threat must be respected, but England’s greater squad depth and big-match experience can make the difference
Match: Norway vs England
League / Competition: World Cup
Our Pick: England To Win
Odds: 1.90
Market: Match Winner
Analyst Confidence: 4/5
England arrive after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico in the last 16 and have now won 15 of their previous 16 competitive matches. Thomas Tuchel’s side have not always been at their fluent best, but they continue to deliver under pressure and possess quality throughout the team.
There was concern over the fitness of Declan Rice, Marc Guéhi and Reece James, but all three returned to full training ahead of the quarter-final. Jarell Quansah is suspended, while Jordan Henderson remains unavailable, but England otherwise have a strong squad to choose from.
Norway have been one of the tournament’s biggest surprises and fully deserve their place in the last eight. They have won four of their five matches and produced a major upset by defeating Brazil 2-1, with Erling Haaland remaining their most dangerous attacking weapon.
Haaland and Martin Ødegaard give Norway enough quality to trouble England, so this is unlikely to be comfortable. However, England possess more depth across the pitch and several different match-winners capable of deciding a tight knockout tie.
Norway may sit compact and look to attack quickly, but England should control more of the possession and create the clearer chances as the match develops. Their experience of reaching the latter stages of major tournaments can also prove important if the game becomes tense.
Back England to win in 90 minutes and book their place in the semi-finals.
Predicted Result:
Norway 1-2 England