For the first time since 2018, a place in the World Cup final feels genuinely within England's grasp. Thomas Tuchel's side might still be three wins away from footballing immortality, but the path to the promised land has rarely looked this smooth. After battling back from the brink against Mexico in the altitude-soaked cauldron of the Estadio Azteca, the Three Lions have been handed a golden ticket. Their side of the bracket has opened up beautifully.
A blockbuster quarter-final clash with Brazil had been pencilled in for months, but Norway pulled off one of the tournament's greatest shocks, dumping Carlo Ancelotti's Seleção out to book a last-eight date with England. The other traditional heavyweight on England's side of the draw, Argentina, have hardly looked convincing lately either. The reigning champions needed extra time to edge past unfancied Cape Verde in the last 32 before relying on a late three-goal burst to see off Egypt in the last 16.
“England face Norway in World Cup quarter-final after Norway's shock win over Brazil; storm delays threaten after Mexico City lightning.”
If England can overcome Norway, the path to the biggest prize in world football looks considerably less daunting than many dared imagine before the tournament began. Although Argentina have been wobbling, a last-four clash with Switzerland would be favourable. Murat Yakin's men topped Group B, with the standout moment of their campaign a 4-1 demolition of Bosnia & Herzegovina on Matchday Two, but they have yet to face one of the tournament's elite. They eased past Algeria 2-0 in the last 32 before needing a penalty shootout to overcome Colombia in the last 16 — and would be big underdogs against Argentina.
Switzerland are seasoned knockout campaigners, but they have never progressed beyond the quarter-finals of a major tournament. England also have recent history on their side, having beaten the Swiss on penalties in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals — a game that required a late equaliser to force extra time.
On paper, England's dream final would be against Belgium, but it is the least likely part of the equation. For now, the immediate focus is on Norway — and the weather. England head to Miami for the quarter-final after their memorable last-16 tie in Mexico City started an hour late due to lightning and heavy rain. The Three Lions have started their preparations for this weekend's clash, but the threat of further storm delays looms.