World Cup 2026: Troost-Ekong tips England to beat Norway

Former Nigerian international William Troost-Ekong has predicted that England will overcome Norway in tomorrow’s quarter-final clash in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026. The encounter is expected to take place at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday evening in Miami.

Recall that England secured their spot in the last eight with a thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16, despite a red card to Jarell Quansah. Norway pulled off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets by knocking out five-time champions Brazil 2-1, riding on a sensational double from Erling Haaland.

For England, this is another step in what is becoming a sustained late-stage run at major tournaments, with Thomas Tuchel’s side arriving in Miami having beaten DR Congo and Mexico to reach the last eight. Norway are contesting their first ever World Cup quarter-final, having ended a 28-year absence from the tournament.

Speaking with Al Jazeera, Troost-Ekong stated that the Three Lions still have a slight edge over the Norwegian side.

“I think that England probably has just an edge over them. Norway has already done something special, and Harry Kane is a player I have known as a kid; we played together at Tottenham Hotspur. A very refined striker. Sometimes I don’t think he gets more credits as he deserves because he has been so consistent over the years. Not just him alone; we also have Jude Bellingham, who can make all the difference. For Kane and Haaland, I think it’s going to be a real battle. I don’t think it’s going to be a draw or goalless, but I think England will surely edge it.”