Haaland Says England Favored Ahead of Norway-England QF

Norway striker Erling Haaland has declared England the clear favorites and insisted all the pressure is on them ahead of their historic World Cup quarterfinal clash in Miami on Saturday, July 11. The Manchester City forward, who was born in Leeds, will lead Norway into its first-ever appearance in the tournament's final eight against a nation filled with his club teammates.

Speaking to reporters in Miami, Haaland repeatedly downplayed Norway's chances while highlighting England's status. He directly called on journalists to shift expectations, stating they should "put every single pressure on the English lads." When asked if England fans should stay humble, Haaland said everyone should remain humble but that England should be confident of progressing. He rated Norway's chances of winning the tournament as "really low, still," and described reaching the quarterfinals as surprising even to himself.

Norway's remarkable run has been powered by Haaland's seven goals in the competition, placing him joint-second in the race for the Golden Boot. His conversion rate of 39 percent from 18 shots is noted as the most efficient finishing in a single World Cup since 1986 for a player with 15...