More than 10,000 England supporters from the UK have descended on the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami for the World Cup quarter-final against Norway, with many expressing cautious optimism despite the threat posed by Norway striker Erling Haaland.
Fans outside the stadium told the Press Association they were hopeful England would advance to the semi-finals, but acknowledged the challenge of facing a Norway side that has impressed in the tournament. The match kicked off amid stifling temperatures in Miami.
Fan Predictions and Concerns
Brothers Doug and Matt Rose, from London, shared their predictions. Doug, 36, forecast a 4-0 win for England, saying: "We've got the players, it's our time. Football's coming home." He added that Norway would be England's toughest test yet, but believed the team would "really come together" and deliver a strong performance.
Matt, 31, was more cautious, predicting a 2-2 draw and an England win on penalties. He noted that Haaland has looked "unbelievable" in the tournament, saying: "Their whole team – they look great. So, I think it's going to be a tough test."
Other Fan Reactions
Max Gill, 27, from London, said he was "relatively confident, but a bit wary of Haaland on the counter," predicting a 1-0 win. Terry Rose, 68, from Huddersfield, praised England manager Thomas Tuchel, saying he "has done really well so far."
Ryan Dougan, 27, from Birmingham, was confident of a 2-1 England victory, stating: "They're in form, they got a great result against Brazil, Haaland's obviously bagging a lot of goals... I think the only way is up now." He added: "I don't think, France aside, anyone's looked significantly better than us. One game at a time, let's go."
Atmosphere in London
Back in London, fans packed Boxpark in Wembley, singing chants and songs ahead of the match. Mark Bowring, 52, from Buckinghamshire, arrived early with his two sons, saying: "If you can't get to the game it's got to be the best place to watch it." Number 10 Downing Street was decorated with St George's flags for the occasion.
Victory over Norway would send England into a semi-final against either Argentina or Switzerland in Atlanta on Wednesday. A silence was held before the match to honour South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams, who died aged 25, just weeks after playing in all three of his country's group matches.
