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6 July 2026

John Stones has stressed that England hold “immense respect” for Norway and their star forward Erling Haaland as Thomas Tuchel’s team prepare for their World Cup quarter-final encounter on Saturday.

England’s reward for their electrifying 3-2 victory over Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday night is a meeting with Norway in Miami. Earlier that day, Haaland’s late double had stunned Brazil in New Jersey, propelling Norway into the last eight.

The upcoming contest marks the nations’ first meeting since September 2014, when Wayne Rooney’s penalty secured a 1-0 friendly victory for England at Wembley. For the Three Lions, it represents a bid to reach their fourth-ever World Cup semi-final, while Norway are chasing an unprecedented place in the final four.

As Stones pointed out, the fixture also holds a fascinating club subplot — Manchester City’s Haaland will face former teammates Marc Guehi and Stones, the latter having recently departed City after a decade with the club.

Reflecting on the challenge of facing Haaland, Stones said following the win over Mexico: “He’s an unbelievable player, and we have huge respect for Norway as a team. They knocked out Brazil today, which says everything, and we’ll show them the same respect we give every opponent.”

“We know exactly what they bring, especially with Erling in their side. We’ve produced some excellent defensive displays so far, and we’ll build on that in the next few days. Tonight is about enjoying a special win.”

Stones came off the bench in the second half as England shifted to a back five to protect their slender lead in Mexico City. Dan Burn and Djed Spence were also introduced in defence following Jarell Quansah’s red card.

It was a gritty defensive display from England to close out a fiery contest at the Azteca. Tuchel’s men held firm under pressure, and Stones — appearing in his third World Cup — believes that experience will strengthen the team heading into the quarter-finals.

“We’ve been through that now and came out on top,” he said. “Knowing we can defend like that when needed gives us confidence going into the next round.”

“The defenders have been outstanding all tournament. We push each other in training, and whoever has played has stepped up brilliantly. That gives us real belief.”

“Playing with ten men for so long, holding off the pressure and seeing it through — that was hugely satisfying. The blocks, the saves — those moments are small victories for defenders, and they build a winning mentality.”

Stones, who started England’s opening match against Croatia, has since been replaced by Guehi alongside Ezri Konsa. However, with Quansah suspended for one match and Reece James still recovering from injury, Stones could feature against Norway if Konsa is moved to right-back.

The 32-year-old, who has earned 92 international caps, insists he is in top shape despite an injury-hit season that restricted him to nine Premier League appearances.

“I’ve been ready to play for some time,” Stones added. “Physically, I feel great, and I’ve worked hard to stay positive and in the best possible condition to help the team whenever I’m called upon.”

“We were calm before the Mexico game, which is one of this team’s strengths. It was an intimidating venue, but once we settled into our rhythm, we showed what we’re capable of.”

Now just three matches away from a potential first World Cup triumph in 60 years, England’s focus is firmly on the showpiece final in New Jersey on 19 July.

“The mindset of the lads who aren’t playing has been amazing,” Stones said. “Everyone is hungry to contribute, and we’re all united behind the same goal — reaching the final.”