Five England players are walking a disciplinary tightrope ahead of Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway, with yellow cards only wiped after the last-eight stage. Thomas Tuchel’s side advanced after a resolute 1-0 win over Mexico at the Azteca, taking the initiative in the first half and defending stubbornly in what was described as one of their most memorable results.
Norway, meanwhile, secured their place in the quarter-finals for the first time on their return to the tournament after a 28-year absence. They stunned record world champions Brazil 2-0, with Erling Haaland scoring twice. ITV commentator Sam Matterface called the Norwegians “a force to be reckoned with” after they dominated Carlo Ancelotti’s much-fancied side. Their previous best was reaching the round of 16 in 1938 and 1998.
“England face Norway in World Cup quarter-final as five stars risk yellow card ban; Haaland scored twice to beat Brazil.”
The success of Norway, a nation of similar size to Scotland, has prompted questions about what Scottish football can learn. Scotland failed to reach the knockout stages after their own 28-year wait and were beaten by Brazil. Head coach Steve Clarke resigned, and former England striker Ian Wright said “somebody is letting Scotland down on a massive scale” and called for a “bolder, braver vision”. He highlighted Norway’s investment in coaching courses, artificial pitches and a National Team School. Between 2016 and 2025, Norway built 539 new artificial surfaces and renovated 586.
The quarter-final line-up also includes defending champions Argentina, who staged an astonishing comeback from 2-0 down to beat Egypt, with Lionel Messi in tears. Spain, yet to concede a goal in the tournament, edged Portugal with a late Mikel Merino strike. France needed a Kylian Mbappe penalty to get past Paraguay but remain most people’s bet for the trophy. Morocco, Belgium and Switzerland complete the eight.
For England, the yellow-card threat adds tension to a tie that already carries historical weight. Norway’s progress mirrors the structured overhaul Scotland are being urged to emulate, while Haaland – who was born in England – faces the nation of his birth.