Opta's supercomputer has predicted the outcome of the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal between England and Norway, with the Three Lions tipped as favourites to reach the last four. The model, which ran 25,000 match simulations, gives Thomas Tuchel's men a 50.4% chance of winning within 90 minutes. England's overall probability of advancing, including extra time and a possible penalty shootout, rises to 62.3%.
Norway's Path to the Quarterfinals
Norway stunned five-time champions Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16, thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland. The Vikings have been given a 25.1% chance of winning in regulation time, while the probability of a draw after 90 minutes stands at 24.6%. The winners will face either Argentina or Switzerland in the semifinals, according to BBC.
Kane and Haaland Headline Blockbuster Showdown
Saturday's encounter is expected to feature two of the tournament's deadliest forwards. England captain Harry Kane has scored six goals at the 2026 World Cup, the fourth-highest tally in the competition. Haaland, meanwhile, has found the net in all four of Norway's World Cup matches, taking his tally to seven goals and extending his scoring streak to 14 consecutive competitive international appearances.
Kane recently etched his name into FIFA World Cup history by scoring his 13th World Cup goal during the Three Lions' 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the Round of 32. The strike saw Kane move past Brazilian legend Pelé, who ended his World Cup career with 12 goals across four tournaments between 1958 and 1970.
England's Dramatic Path to the Last Eight
England booked their place in the quarterfinals after edging co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a dramatic Round of 16 encounter, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice. The Three Lions will now look to overcome a resilient Norwegian side that has already eliminated one of the tournament's heavyweights.
According to Opta's supercomputer, England have the edge over the Scandinavian side, but the match promises to be a closely contested affair with both teams boasting world-class attacking talent.
