Ivana Knoll, the former Miss Croatia known as the 'World Cup's sexiest fan', has declared her support for Norway ahead of their Women's World Cup quarter-final against England. She posted a video on social media wearing a red bikini top with the Norwegian flag, alongside a red and white chequered arm sleeve and jean shorts pockets representing her homeland. The caption read: 'game day, quarterfinal in my city! on my way to support Norway today. Let’s go!'
From Croatia to Norway
Knoll had been cheering for Croatia in the tournament, but they were eliminated by Portugal in the round of 32 with a 2-1 loss. This ended Luka Modric's international career and left Knoll seeking a new team to support. She announced her switch to Norway in a gym video, mimicking the rowing celebration that Norwegian fans have been performing in the stands. She told her 3 million followers: 'Croatia is out… so I’m training my Norwegian celebration for Saturday and the rest of the World Cup.'
Pitchside Presence in Miami
Knoll attended the quarter-final match at the stadium in Miami, where she posed pitchside for cameras before kick-off. England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, faced Norway with a semi-final spot against Argentina or Switzerland at stake. Tuchel made tactical changes, moving Ezri Konsa to right-back and starting Noni Madueke on the right in place of Bukayo Saka. The defence included three Manchester City players—Marc Guehi, John Stones, and Nico O'Reilly—tasked with stopping their club teammate Erling Haaland.
