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Former Norway international John Arne Riise believes his country has what it takes to challenge for the World Cup trophy for the very first time.

Norway are set to face England in their historic first-ever World Cup quarter-final on Saturday, and Riise is backing the Scandinavian side to emerge as dark horses for the title.

After a 28-year absence from the tournament, Norway made a remarkable return this summer. They defeated Senegal and Ivory Coast to reach the last 16, before stunning Brazil in New Jersey with a memorable performance.

Erling Haaland scored both goals in that dramatic victory, leading his teammates in their now-iconic Viking rowing celebration on the pitch, which was mirrored by the Norwegian fans in the stands.

Former Liverpool and Norway star Riise will be present at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami for Saturday’s quarter-final and is eager to join in the Viking celebrations himself.

“I haven’t done it yet because I’ve been watching the games in a quiet area,” he said. “But I’m going to the game this Saturday and I have to do it in the stands. I’ll probably be sitting with other legends there, and when the fans start rowing, I’m joining in! I have to, because I’ve never been to a World Cup either as a fan or a player.”

Riise added, “I’m so excited because it’s going to be an unbelievable atmosphere both on the pitch and in the stands. The Norwegian and English fans are going to have a fantastic time together.”

“Seeing how this World Cup has been for Norwegian fans has been incredible, and I want to be a part of it, support the team, and give my best to help them. Hopefully, we can give England one hell of a beating.”

That last comment was a playful nod to Bjorge Lillelien’s legendary commentary after Norway’s famous win over England in a World Cup qualifier back in 1981 — a shock result that still resonates today. Remarkably, Norway have not lost to the Three Lions in a competitive fixture since that memorable night.

Riise also expressed confidence that Norway can go all the way if they manage to overcome England.

“Yes, I do think that Norway can win the World Cup if they win this game against England,” he said, speaking in association with BestBettingSites.co.uk.

“Why not? Before the World Cup started, I never thought we could win it. I believed reaching the quarter-finals would be the absolute maximum. But the way they’ve played, the way they’ve carried themselves, and the attacking mindset they’ve shown in every match to get here has been unbelievable.”

“Yes, I believe we can win it. France are still the big favourites for the tournament, and it’s hard to see anyone beating them right now, but we have a chance. We’re in the last eight, and anything is possible.”