Norway's Coach Urges Team to Embrace Their Style Ahead of England Clash in FIFA World Cup 2026

As Norway gears up to face England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals, coach Stale Solbakken emphasizes the importance of staying true to their football style. He encourages his players to focus on their strengths and not be intimidated by the occasion. Despite a shaky start in the tournament, Solbakken believes in his team's potential to upset England, highlighting the need for strong midfield competition and disciplined defense. With key players like Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane posing threats, Norway aims to harness their capabilities to advance further in the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2026, 03:18 IST

Norway Prepares for Quarterfinal Showdown Against England

Florida [US], July 11: Stale Solbakken, the head coach of Norway, has encouraged his players to maintain their unique style of football and not be intimidated as they gear up to face England in the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

In the lead-up to this crucial match, Solbakken emphasized the importance of his team focusing on their gameplay rather than the significance of the event itself. He stated, “It’s crucial that we play our game and not get distracted by the atmosphere around us, concentrating solely on what happens on the pitch.”

He further highlighted that for Norway to advance past England, they must leverage their own strengths. “I want to see a Norway team that plays to its strengths and remains true to itself,” he remarked.

Norway's journey in the tournament began with a rocky performance against Iraq, where Solbakken noted that his players appeared anxious during the initial stages, but they eventually found their form, winning 4-1.

“In the first 20 minutes against Iraq, we looked like a very nervous team, struggling to connect passes,” he explained. “This was partly due to the occasion, as it has been 26 years since Norway last participated in a major tournament, and none of the players had World Cup experience.”

Solbakken acknowledged England's impressive attacking lineup, singling out Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane as significant threats. “Facing a team like England, with such talented players on the wings, is always challenging. Bellingham and Kane can score from various positions,” he noted.

He also pointed out England's midfield strength, stressing the need for Norway to compete effectively in that area while maintaining defensive discipline. “They have a formidable duo in midfield. We must compete there and defend well,” he added.

Despite the formidable challenge posed by England, Solbakken expressed confidence in his squad's belief, asserting that the players feel capable of pulling off an upset if they perform at their best. “Deep down, the players believe they can defeat England. However, we must be at our absolute best; otherwise, England will advance,” he concluded.