Marc Guehi has admitted that Erling Haaland will be a man on a mission when England face Norway in the World Cup quarter-final in Miami on Saturday. The England defender, who plays alongside Haaland at Manchester City, acknowledged the striker's formidable form and the challenge he poses.
Haaland has scored seven goals in the tournament so far, including a double against Brazil in the last 16. He has also scored against all of England's centre-backs in previous encounters, netting seven times against Guehi before the defender joined City.
Guehi's Take on Facing Haaland
Guehi said: "I know he'll be up for it. It'll be a challenge, but it's good to see some familiar faces and try and do our best and try and get a win. It's going to be fun, it will be fun."
The City defender also emphasised the growing team spirit within the England squad. "Trust. We already had it before but trust even more. We spoke about stuff coming into it. I think everybody having that bond and that trust for one another and hopefully we can keep building that up. Let's kick on."
Stopping the Unstoppable
Haaland has been a key figure for Norway, outmuscling Arsenal's Gabriel to head in his first goal against Brazil and beating Liverpool's Alisson Becker from long range. Despite knowing Haaland's game inside out, stopping him remains a major challenge. Guehi has faced Haaland four times, conceding seven goals, while Ezri Konsa has fared better, conceding just once in five matches and winning three. Dan Burn has also conceded only once in six meetings.
The most effective strategy is to starve Haaland of service, possession, and space, forcing him to drop deep where his chances are limited. Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson will be crucial as England's midfield shield.
Haaland's Character and Impact
Haaland's personality is described as ice cold, with a big sense of humour and strong camaraderie within the Norway dressing room. He is the heartbeat of the squad and a global superstar.
England's Belief and Fan Support
Guehi believes England's win over Mexico has instilled belief in the team. He praised the fans for their support, saying: "I don't think it's sunk in. It was just such an amazing moment for everyone watching at home. And it was so emotional, and in those moments that's just all relief, all the energy just zapped out."
He also commented on the atmosphere at the Azteca Stadium: "The hype about the Azteca was real! I'll be honest I didn't believe it all, everyone talking. But after twenty minutes, I was feeling it as well. That drink break was needed! And then the noise was probably the loudest stadium I've played in for sure."
Guehi added: "Thank you so much for the support. We definitely feel it, all the fans that travelled, thank you so much. Even in the Azteca. Still making your voice heard, and everyone's staying up past their bedtimes to watch the game. Way past their bedtimes! Thank you."
