England has not won the World Cup since its home triumph in 1966, and this tournament has offered the clearest sign yet that manager Thomas Tuchel’s side may be capable of ending that wait.
A Historic Win Over Mexico
England’s Round of 16 victory over co-host Mexico in Mexico City, won 3-2 with two early goals from Jude Bellingham and a Harry Kane penalty, was described as the team’s best win on foreign soil at a major tournament in its history. Since 1966, England had won just ten knockout matches at the World Cup before this result.
The Road So Far
England topped its group before advancing through the Round of 32, and the win over Mexico set up a quarterfinal against Norway’s Erling Haaland on July 11 in Miami, one of the tournament’s most anticipated remaining fixtures.
Key Contributors
Harry Kane has continued his prolific scoring form throughout the tournament, sitting among the Golden Boot contenders, while Jude Bellingham has provided creative direction from midfield. Both players have drawn comparisons to past England sides that fell short at the semifinal stage.
What Standing in the Way
A talented Norway team, fueled by Haaland’s seven goals including both in the win over Brazil, presents a serious obstacle. Should England advance, the bracket also holds the possibility of a semifinal against Argentina or Switzerland, ensuring any run to the final would require overcoming genuine title contenders at every stage.
