What happened in the quarter‑final?

Norway delivered a stunning win against England at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Saturday (2026‑07‑11). After trailing 0‑1 in the first half, the team turned the match around with two goals from Erling Braut Haaland and a crucial cross from Oscar Bobb. The final score was 2‑1 to Norway, sending them to the semi‑finals for the first time since 1998.

Why was Norway’s tactics so effective?

Coach Ståle Solbakken set up a compact back five, with Nico O’Reilly at left‑back and Marc Guéhi (if fit) in central defence. O’Reilly emphasized that inside knowledge of Haaland’s movements was key: “We’ve seen him in the Premier League, so we know when he will run into the box.” England’s back line, missing John Stones after his season‑end departure, failed to contain him. Additionally, Norway pressed high on the flanks, forcing England to sit deep.

Who were Norway’s biggest contributors?

Erling Braut Haaland continued his impressive World Cup form with two goals in four matches, his fifth of the tournament coming in the quarter‑final. Oscar Bobb, who started on the right wing instead of Alexander Sørloth, delivered a precise cross that led to Haaland’s second goal. Nico O’Reilly, playing left‑back, kept England’s attack at bay with several clean tackles. Former international Tore André Flo praised the squad’s confidence: “Everyone in Norway is very excited, and we don’t feel much pressure.”

What does this mean for Norway’s future?

The victory secures a place in the semi‑finals, where Norway will face the winner of the other quarter‑final. With a recent form of 3W‑0D‑2L (WWWLL) and the latest result Brazil 1‑2 Norway (2026‑07‑05), the team has shown a strong upward trend. The next scheduled fixture is a home match against England on 11 July 2026, but the upcoming semi‑final will likely be played at a neutral venue in the United States. Norway now has a chance to make history and possibly reach the World Cup final for the first time in over three decades.