Norway vs England Prediction 11.07.2026 | World Cup 2026

Norway's fairytale run in North America continues to captivate the footballing world, with Stale Solbakken's golden generation proving that they have truly come of age on the biggest stage, and their performances throughout the tournament have only strengthened the belief that they possess all the qualities required to challenge for the World Cup crown.

Having successfully navigated a demanding Group I by finishing runners-up behind France, the Landslaget have demonstrated their resilience in the knockout rounds, first overcoming Ivory Coast with a hard-fought 2-1 victory in the Round of 32 before producing one of the biggest shocks of the tournament by eliminating five-time world champions Brazil by the very same scoreline to book their place in the quarter-finals.

Driving Norway's remarkable campaign has, unsurprisingly, been the irrepressible Erling Haaland, with the Manchester City striker enjoying a sensational debut World Cup after finding the back of the net seven times in just five appearances, leaving him firmly in contention for the Golden Boot alongside Kylian Mbappe (7) and Lionel Messi (8).

Solbakken also has the luxury of travelling into Thursday's heavyweight showdown against one of the tournament favourites with a fully fit squad at his disposal, although at least one change to the starting lineup cannot be ruled out, as Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup made a huge impact off the bench against Brazil by setting up both of Haaland's goals and staking a strong claim for a place in the first XI.

As for England, the Three Lions continue their pursuit of a long-awaited second World Cup crown, with the famous Jules Rimet Trophy having eluded them for six decades since their historic triumph on home soil in 1966, although their journey through the United States has been anything but straightforward despite remaining firmly on course for a place in the final in Miami.

Having been pushed all the way by a spirited DR Congo side before eventually edging out a hard-fought 2-1 victory in the opening knockout round, Thomas Tuchel's men were forced to come through another stern examination in the Round of 16, where they silenced a hostile crowd at the Estadio Azteca by overcoming co-hosts Mexico in a pulsating 3-2 contest that has already earned widespread recognition as one of the standout matches of the tournament.

Although England have enjoyed an impressive campaign by winning four of their five matches in North America, Tuchel will be far from satisfied with the performances of his backline, which has looked surprisingly vulnerable at times and has conceded several avoidable goals, an issue that could prove particularly costly against a Norway side brimming with attacking firepower.

The England boss must also cope with a number of selection concerns in defence, as Jordan Henderson has been ruled out through injury, Jarell Quansah is suspended after being sent off against Mexico, while the medical staff are working tirelessly to ensure Reece James is fit enough to feature after his recent fitness setback.