Norway's coach confident ahead of World Cup quarter-final against England

Norway's national football team coach, Stale Solbakken, conveyed a strong sense of confidence ahead of his team's World Cup quarter-final clash against England in Miami. Solbakken stated that his players believe they can defeat England, but stressed the necessity of Norway performing at their absolute best to achieve this.

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Deep down, the players feel they can beat England, but we have to be at our best version, otherwise England will advance.

Reflecting on the team's journey, Solbakken recalled their shaky start to the tournament, mentioning difficulties in the opening 20 minutes against Iraq. However, he noted a gradual improvement and a growing sense of confidence as the team progressed through the group stages. This self-assurance now fuels their approach to the high-stakes match against a favored English side.

Solbakken identified key attacking threats for both teams, stating, "Harry Kane is the main attacker for England and Haaland is also for us." He recognized that England carries a greater weight of expectation into the game. Despite this, the Norwegian coach downplayed the psychological factor once the match commences, asserting that "When the ball starts rolling, I don't think the pressure will be that important. It's 11 against 11."

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Harry Kane is the main attacker for England and Haaland is also for us.

The coach's remarks underscore Norway's determined mindset as they prepare to face one of the tournament's top contenders. While acknowledging England's formidable presence, Solbakken's comments suggest a belief within the Norwegian camp that an upset is achievable through strong performance and a focused approach on the field.

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When the ball starts rolling, I don't think the pressure will be that important. It's 11 against 11.