Norway’s coach, Stale Solbakken, revealed that several players are battling illness just days before their crucial World Cup quarter-final against England on Saturday.

Following a dramatic 2-1 victory over Brazil, where Erling Haaland scored twice and Neymar's late penalty only served as a consolation, Norway now prepares for the next challenge in Miami. On the other hand, England triumphed over Mexico in a thrilling 3-2 match, with standout performances from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Solbakken acknowledged the health concerns within his squad:

• Jorgen Strand Larsen, a striker, has been struggling with illness.
• Marcus Holmgren Pedersen, a defender, missed the match against Brazil due to sickness and has been affected by a cough and fatigue.
• Assistant coach Kent Bergersen has also been unwell recently.

Despite these setbacks, Solbakken remains optimistic, stating, "We’ve had a few players who haven’t been feeling well, but things are getting better. It’s not ideal during a tournament, but we’re managing the situation."

Norway’s journey to the quarter-finals included victories over Iraq (4-1), Senegal (3-2), and Ivory Coast (2-1), alongside a loss to France (1-4), where Solbakken made ten changes to the lineup.

As for England, they will be without Jarell Quansah, who received a straight red card in the match against Mexico. The team is contemplating an appeal for Quansah’s one-game suspension amid a notable incident involving Folarin Balogun from the USA team, whose ban was controversially lifted after intervention from President Donald Trump.

With both teams facing unique challenges, the upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter.