Nico O’Reilly has accused Erling Haaland of playing “mind games” ahead of England’s World Cup 2026 quarter-final tie against Norway. The Manchester City left-back dismissed the superstar striker’s comments that England are “clear favourites” to win the match in Miami on Saturday.
Haaland's Comments and England's Response
Haaland labelled England as the overwhelming favourites ahead of the quarter-final contest. However, O’Reilly interpreted this as a psychological tactic. “Yeah, mind games,” O’Reilly said. “But they're a good team as well. They've showed that throughout the whole tournament. It's not just certain players that we need to worry about. They're good collectively, and it's going to be a good game.”
England are bidding to reach their second World Cup semi-final in the last three tournaments. They advanced after a dramatic 3-2 win over co-hosts Mexico while playing with 10 men at the Estadio Azteca. Norway, meanwhile, are in uncharted territory after reaching their first-ever World Cup quarter-final following a shock 2-1 victory over Brazil in the last 16.
Haaland's Threat and England's Defensive Plans
Haaland has been a standout performer at the tournament, scoring in every game he has played and sitting just one goal behind Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot. O’Reilly, who will be tasked with helping to keep his City team-mate in check, acknowledged the challenge but emphasised that England’s focus is on the collective.
“Erling's Erling,” O’Reilly added. “We all know what he's like. He can score goals. He's dangerous in the box, and he's a real threat. But they need to get him the ball in first. A lot goes into it. I think keeping Erling quiet gives us a real chance to win the game. We know the threat he can cause - unbelievable striker, world-class, and he showed that throughout the tournament, scoring every game he's played in.”
Team-Mates and Familiarity
Haaland is well known within the England camp, with O’Reilly, Marc Guehi and John Stones all his team-mates at Manchester City. This familiarity could prove crucial as England look to neutralise his threat. Despite Haaland’s individual brilliance, O’Reilly insisted that Norway’s collective strength should not be underestimated, noting their impressive run to the quarter-finals.
England will need to be at their best to progress, but O’Reilly’s comments suggest the team is unfazed by Haaland’s antics and focused on executing their game plan.
