Solbakken names England as favorites but issues a crucial warning

The Norway national team will face England in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals. Ahead of the match, Norway head coach Ståle Solbakken labeled the opponent as favorites, but emphasized that England's superiority is not absolute.

The coach believes the main pressure will be on the English side. Norway, meanwhile, will try to prove they are not a team solely dependent on Erling Haaland.

“England are favorites, but not overwhelming ones”

Ståle Solbakken acknowledged England's strong squad and vast experience.

“England are favorites, but not clear favorites. I think the pressure on England is greater than it is on us,” he said.

According to him, Norway also feels the responsibility for the result. However, once the game starts, the players will forget the pressure and focus on their tasks on the pitch.

Kane vs. Haaland showdown

Ahead of the quarterfinal, the main attention is focused on two strikers — Harry Kane and Erling Haaland.

Solbakken did not hide this fact:

“It is no secret to anyone that Kane is the leader of the England national team, and Erling is our leader.”

At the same time, the coach said it would be wrong to evaluate the match only as a rivalry between two stars.

“You are underestimating our other players”

Solbakken emphasized that Norway has other high-level players in the squad besides Haaland.

“There is no doubt — Haaland is our leader. But I think you are underestimating some of our other players,” the coach said.

He noted that even Haaland needs the help of his teammates to score goals and showcase his abilities.

Norway preparing for a sensation

England may be favorites on paper, but Norway believes in its chances. It is clear from Solbakken's statement that the team aims to use the opponent's pressure to reach the semifinals through their collective play.

Now the main question is — will England, led by Kane, prevail, or will Norway, led by Haaland, create the next sensation of the tournament?