Norway head coach Stale Solbakken believes the battle between Erling Haaland and Harry Kane could play a decisive role when Norway face England in their FIFA World Cup quarter-final on Saturday.
Read More: Hosts shine at FIFA World Cup 2026
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated clash in Miami, Solbakken described both forwards as the key match-winners for their respective teams. He said that while the contest is ultimately between Norway and England, there is no denying the importance of two of world football’s most prolific strikers.
Haaland has enjoyed a remarkable tournament, scoring seven goals in his first four World Cup appearances to help Norway reach the quarter-finals for the first time since returning to the tournament after a 28-year absence. Kane has also been in outstanding form, scoring six goals and taking his overall World Cup tally to 14 as England advanced to a third consecutive quarter-final.
Solbakken acknowledged that England may carry greater expectations but insisted his players are focused and confident. He said Norway have embraced every knockout match as a historic occasion and believe they can continue their impressive run after eliminating Brazil in the round of 16.
England, now coached by Thomas Tuchel, are aiming to convert a talented squad into major tournament success after several near misses in recent years. Norway, meanwhile, are competing in their first major international tournament in 26 years and have emerged as one of the competition’s surprise packages.
The Norwegian coach also praised the support his team has received from fans, whose Viking-themed celebrations have become a memorable feature of the tournament. He expressed hope that Norway’s current success would mark the beginning of more regular appearances at major international competitions.
Read More: Morocco again knocked out of World Cup by France 2-0
The quarter-final will be played in challenging weather conditions, with high temperatures and humidity expected in Miami. Solbakken said his squad had adjusted its training schedule to conserve energy, adding that both teams would have to cope equally with the demanding climate as they compete for a place in the World Cup semi-finals.