Norway manager Stale Solbakken emphasized that the upcoming World Cup quarter-final against England in Miami is more than just a battle between star strikers Erling Haaland and Harry Kane. The match at the Hard Rock Stadium features both players as top contenders for the Golden Boot, but one will see their World Cup journey end after the final whistle.

Haaland recently made headlines with a stunning double against Brazil, while Kane secured a win for England with a match-winning penalty against co-hosts Mexico. He had also played a pivotal role in their comeback victory over DR Congo.

Despite the spotlight on individual talent, Solbakken stressed the importance of teamwork if Norway aims to reach the World Cup semi-finals for the first time. "I think it’s Norway versus England, but I don’t think it is a secret that Kane is the match-winner number one for England and Haaland is match-winner number one for us," he stated in a press conference.

Solbakken candidly discussed Haaland’s training intensity, noting that his goal-scoring hunger fluctuates. He also pointed out that England's strengths extend beyond just Haaland, highlighting the threats posed by players like Jude Bellingham and the tactical prowess of Thomas Tuchel's squad.

Norway faces challenges, including an illness bug within the camp. However, defender Marcus Holmgren Pedersen has returned to training, while David Moller Wolfe is under observation after an injury.

With confidence in his squad’s balance, Solbakken remarked, "This is the third most important game for Norwegian football." He believes the players are in a relaxed yet competitive mindset, ready to embrace the pressure that comes with the knockout stage.