England vs Norway Quarter-Final: Storm Threat Looms Over Miami
England are set to face Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Saturday, with a semi-final spot against either Argentina or Switzerland at stake. The winner will then face either France or Spain in the final. However, weather concerns threaten to disrupt the match, as thunderstorms are forecast around kick-off time.
AccuWeather senior meteorologist Chad Merrill warned that thunderstorms and lightning are likely in Miami from midday through early afternoon local time, which corresponds to the match scheduled for 10pm BST. Speaking to The Sun, Merrill said: "It's that time frame from midday through the early part of the afternoon where there will likely be some thunderstorms and lightning nearby for the match." This has raised questions about whether the game will start on time.
England Receive Triple Injury Boost
England head coach Thomas Tuchel received positive news on the injury front, as Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, and Reece James all participated in full training with the squad on Friday. Rice and Guehi had missed Wednesday's session but have now returned, while James has been sidelined for the previous three matches due to injury. All three are expected to be available for selection against Norway.
Tuchel Calls for Bravery, Seeks FIFA Explanation for Quansah Ban
Tuchel urged his team to be bold in the quarter-final clash. "We need to be brave now. It's quarter-finals, and the brave will have the luck on their side. We cannot have any regrets when we play a quarter-final. We have to go for it," he said.
Meanwhile, Tuchel revealed that England have received no explanation from FIFA regarding the two-match ban imposed on Jarell Quansah for his red card against Mexico. When asked about any communication with the governing body, a FIFA communications representative told Tuchel: "If you want a response from FIFA, email media@fifa.com."
Norway Pile Pressure on England
Norway head coach Stale Solbakken believes the pressure is firmly on England. "I think England has more pressure than us, but we also put pressure on our performance, and when the game starts, I don't think the players think about pressure. I think it's something which is only spoken about before the game," he said.
Kane Dismisses Haaland Comparison, Plays Down Golden Boot Race
Harry Kane has dismissed comparisons with Norway's Erling Haaland, insisting they are different types of strikers. "I think we are completely different players because I know we're both seen as strikers, but I think we play two completely different positions if I'm honest," Kane said.
On the Golden Boot race, where Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe lead with six goals, Kane sits one goal behind alongside Haaland. He downplayed the pressure: "In terms of myself, I don't think it adds any more pressure. It's exciting for all football fans to see us doing well. A lot of us are still in the tournament, so from my point of view, I try to do my best for the team."
Kane Confirms Golf Round with Donald Trump
Kane revealed that he played golf with former US President Donald Trump in Florida about 18 months ago. "When the President invites you somewhere, it was a pretty surreal experience just to meet him and obviously play golf with him. His golf is pretty good, to be honest with you. I hope I can play golf as well as him when I'm his age, that's for sure. A unique experience, but I was just grateful that he invited me to play," Kane said.
England Fans in High Spirits in Miami
England supporters have been enjoying their time in Florida, attending a Cleveland Guardians versus Miami Marlins baseball game on Friday. The MLB side's official drummer broke protocol by shouting "Let's go England," while Norway fans performed their "row" celebration alongside Billy the Marlin, Miami's mascot.
Courtois Exits in Tears as Spain Progress
In the other quarter-final, Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left the pitch in tears after being forced off injured. The match was 1-1 when substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens fumbled a long-distance effort, allowing Mikel Merino to score the winner for Spain. Spain will now face France in the semi-finals.
