England to do it the hard way yet again.

Disappointingly, the Azteca exorcism didn’t involve a levitating body, but England are at least safely into the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It’s a far more agreeable kickoff time, meaning that we can enjoy the battle of the blond giants just that little bit more, as Erling Haaland and Harry Kane face off.

Once again, we have Joe Cole on hand to give some expert insight. Here, he gives his Bet Builder for Norway v England – and if you really like it, why not use your FREE one on it. Let’s go!

England to win on penalties
Anthony Gordon 2+ Shots
Erling Haaland 2+ Shots
Kristoffer Ajer to commit 1+ fouls

A Bet Builder with these selections pays approximately 15/1 with Paddy Power. CLICK OR TAP HERE TO ADD IT TO YOUR BETSLIP.

WHEN: Saturday, July 11th, 10pm
WHERE: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
TV: ITV 1 / ITV X / STV

England to win on penalties

I think this is the toughest game yet for England, as Norway have such a physical presence. Set pieces will be crucial, obviously there’s Haaland, but Antonio Nusa and Oscar Bobb offer a lot of quality too. Norway’s midfield is decent as well, with Patrick Berg being an underrated player. And there’s also the fact they beat Brazil 2-1 as well.

Then again, England put in an incredible performance at the Azteca, and Thomas Tuchel’s subs were spot on. Jarell Quansah’s absence is a potential problem, with a lack of fullbacks already, though he’s got options in the form of Djed Spence and Ezri Konsa. I think this game will be 1-1 in regular time and go all the way to penalties. It’s going to be on a knife edge throughout.

Anthony Gordon 2+ Shots

Anthony Gordon was brilliant in the Azteca and won England their penalty for 3-1, so he’ll definitely start. On top of attempting at least one shot in all four of his prior World Cup games, he’s shown some solid creative output, averaging an assist every other match. Additionally, he’s similarly consistent for key passes and dribbles won per-game – 1.25 and 1.00 respectively – and has really shone in the knockouts with two assists in as many rounds.

Erling Haaland 2+ Shots

We all know about what Erling Haaland can do, so this is a pretty obvious pick. His brace against Brazil stands as proof that even the traditional ‘big’ teams aren’t safe from him, and he’ll go into the quarter-finals sitting third – only behind Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe – for shots per game amongst players still in the tournament.

Kristoffer Ajer to commit 1+ fouls

Had there been more time left on the clock, Haaland’s good work might have been undone by the Brentford defender, with his challenge giving Brazil the penalty that saw a grandstand finish to their Round of 16 tie. While doesn’t commit fouls with a lot of regularity, the fact that he’s managed 5+ clearances in every appearance at this tournament tells us that he’s always alert – but that doesn’t make him immune to a mistimed challenge, especially if facing the quick feet of the in-form Gordon.

Norway v England tips

England to win on penalties
Anthony Gordon 2+ Shots
Erling Haaland 2+ Shots
Kristoffer Ajer to commit 1+ fouls

A Bet Builder with these selections pays approximately 15/1 with Paddy Power. CLICK OR TAP HERE TO ADD IT TO YOUR BETSLIP.

*All prices are bang up to date with our snazzy widgets, while odds in copy are accurate at time of publishing but subject to change.

READ MORETap here for PP.com’s latest football oddsThe Paddy Power Guide To Safer Gambling – Everything You Need To Know