Match predictions – july 11

ANDRE LOWE, sports content manager

Norway have been the tournament’s great disruptors, and with Haaland in this type of mood, England’s defence will know that they could be in for a rough day. It would, however, be a mistake to think that Norway is just about Haaland. They present a structured unit with talent in key areas that should bring some interesting battles. Odegaard’s guile will conflict with Rice and Bellingham’s industry, while Nusa and Sorloth can hurt England if the full-backs get caught high. Still, England’s midfield depth and attacking variety should eventually make the difference. Kane dropping off could open space for Saka and Gordon, and Bellingham has the habit of arriving in the biggest moments. Norway will probably add to their 12 goals — likely through Haaland, but the real concern for them is the nine that they have conceded. England have only conceded five goals and have had two clean sheets, on their day, they are hard to score against. The Three Lions seem to have more tools in their shed and are better equipped to build towards a victory here, but England will probably find a way to make it harder than it needs to be. It will be close, but I am predicting a 2-1 win for England.

Andre Lowe

Other prediction:

Argentina 3-0 Switzerland

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RACHID PARCHMENT, Digital sports coordinator

This game features two teams riding a wave of euphoria after Norway upset Brazil in the previous round, while England did what many thought unlikely in beating hosts Mexico in Mexico City, with 10 men.

Thomas Tuchel has some serious thinking to do at right back with Jarell Quansah missing through suspension. He will likely rather opt for Djed Spence there although he’s not fully fit than playing Ezri Konsa there and disrupting his partnership with Marc Guéhi at the centre of defence. This presents an opportunity for Antonio Nusa on Norway’s left side and he may prove to be a handful.

Declan Rice will carry the weight of expectation in midfield again for England, being tasked to restrict the movement of his Arsenal teammate Martin Ødegaard.

Neither team has done exceptionally well at keeping clean sheets throughout this competition and I don’t expect one in this game.

Two of the best strikers in the world at the moment in Norway’s Erling Haaland and England’s Harry Kane come face-to-face with the World Cup golden boot trophy up for grabs, as well as the small matter of a semi-final berth. I don’t expect either to be denied. This is a close game to call but I’m giving England the slight edge to win this 2-1.

Other prediction:

Argentina 2-0 Switzerland

TRISHANA MCGOWAN, Football writer

Rachid Parchment

Norway is inspired by Erling Haaland and their historic achievement getting to the quarterfinal stage after beating Brazil, a performance that stunned the football world.

They have shown enough throughout the rounds that they’re contenders for a semifinal spot and are not just here to make up numbers.

Haaland’s pace and finishing will be tough for England, but the English players being familiar with his style of play, makes it that much more thrilling.

Jude Bellingham has been brilliant, likewise captain Harry Kane and both I believe are ready and fully prepared for the Norway team.

Trishana McGowan

England will be without Quansah, which is big blow to the backline, however, both teams have enough quality all around to keep us entertained for the 90 mins and added time.

I am on edge with this prediction. Two quality players, Haaland and Kane, are in the golden boot race so goals will be scored, but I say 3-2 for England in extra-time.

Other prediction

Argentina 2-1 Switzerland