World Cup 2026: France going out? Chris Sutton’s score predictions for quarter-final ties

Miami / 22:00 CET

England’s 3-2 win over Mexico was arguably the match of the tournament so far.

I really enjoyed the resilience they showed with 10 men, with the substitutes coming on and John Stones blocking, Dan Burn directing every ball clearly and Djed Spence making some really important tackles.

This will be a different kind of test for Thomas Tuchel’s team, but I think it will be just as close.

Orjan Nyland made some great saves to help Norway get past Brazil, but I saw most of them and think they are a good team.

Everyone knows the star quality of Martin Odegaard and Erling Haaland and after beating Brazil, I am sure that Haaland will have a big say in this match too.

His move in the first goal against Brazil was incredible. His battle with Gabriel was exciting before the game, but Haaland definitely won the challenge.

Heading isn’t even one of his best attributes, but he stayed out of Gabriel’s line of sight and anticipated where the ball would go at the point where the cross was played, and the defender couldn’t get close to him.

There will be more goals in this match and I wouldn’t be surprised if Haaland scores a few goals.

England did not control the games in the way people expected. They have been a team of big moments in this World Cup, producing quality moments at the right times.

But at the same time, I don’t think the Norway defense kept Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham quiet.

If the match is opened, I don’t think England will pay any attention to it. I think there will be more to come from their front runners, starting from here.

Sutton’s prediction: 2-3

AI’s prediction: 1-2