10-man England survive Azteca scare to face Norway in World Cup quarter-final

England secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over tournament co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca to advance to the quarter-finals of World Cup 2026, setting up a last-eight clash with Norway on Saturday, July 11 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with kick-off at 10pm BST.

Thomas Tuchel’s side were reduced to ten men in the second half but showed considerable resilience to hold their lead against a Mexican side playing in front of their own supporters. The result represents one of England’s most celebrated World Cup performances in recent memory.

Awaiting them is a Norway side that produced a stunning upset of their own, defeating five-time world champions Brazil 2-1 in the round of 16. Erling Haaland scored twice to inspire the Scandinavian nation to their first-ever World Cup quarter-final appearance, with Neymar’s late penalty for Brazil ultimately proving insufficient.

England head into the tie with significant selection concerns. Defender Jarell Quansah is suspended after receiving a red card against Mexico, while midfielder Jordan Henderson is doubtful having suffered a wrist injury during the post-match celebrations. Right-back Reece James also remains a major doubt due to a persistent hamstring problem.

Norway, by contrast, enter the quarter-final in good health. No fresh injury concerns have been reported following their win over Brazil, and full-back Julian Ryerson — who returned from a thigh injury to start that match — means Haaland will have a fully fit squad around him.

The two nations have a relatively limited history at major tournaments, having never previously met at a World Cup or European Championship. Across 12 meetings in all competitions, England hold the advantage with seven wins, two defeats, and three draws.