Top News

The Three Lions appear undisturbed by Erling Haaland’s psychological tactics ahead of their crucial World Cup 2026 quarter-final clash.

Nico O’Reilly has accused Norway’s star forward Erling Haaland of engaging in “mind games” before England face Norway in their quarter-final encounter at the World Cup 2026 in Miami on Saturday.

Haaland described England — who are aiming to reach their second World Cup semi-final in three editions — as “clear favourites” to beat Norway. His remarks have added spice to a fixture already brimming with anticipation.

Norway have made history by advancing to their first-ever World Cup quarter-final after a surprising 2-1 victory over Brazil in the round of 16. Meanwhile, England showed incredible resilience to defeat co-hosts Mexico 3-2 at the Estadio Azteca despite being reduced to 10 men.

England’s defenders are well aware of Haaland’s lethal scoring ability. The Manchester City striker currently trails only Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot, making him one of the most feared attackers in the tournament.

Left-back Nico O’Reilly, who will have the challenging task of helping to contain his Manchester City team-mate, stressed that England are not preoccupied with stopping one player. Instead, he praised Norway’s overall teamwork and discipline.

When questioned about Haaland’s suggestion that all the pressure is on England, O’Reilly responded: “Yeah, mind games.”

He added, “But they’re a good team as well. They’ve shown that throughout the whole tournament.”

“It’s not just certain players that we need to worry about. They’re good collectively, and it’s going to be a good game.”

Haaland, who netted twice late in Norway’s triumph over Brazil, is a familiar face for several members of the England squad. O’Reilly, along with Marc Guehi and John Stones, shares club duties with him at Manchester City.

The 25-year-old has impressed in his debut World Cup campaign, but O’Reilly insists that England’s chances of advancing will significantly improve if they succeed in limiting Haaland’s influence.

“Erling’s Erling,” O’Reilly remarked. “We all know what he’s like. He can score goals, he’s dangerous inside the box, and he’s a major threat. But they need to get the ball to him first — a lot goes into making that happen.”

He continued, “I think keeping Erling quiet gives us a real chance to win the game.”

“We understand the threat he poses — an unbelievable striker, truly world-class — and he’s demonstrated that throughout the tournament by scoring in every match he’s played.”