Solbakken backs Haaland to lead Norway to World Cup triumph over England

Haaland has been in sensational form, scoring seven goals in his first four matches at a major tournament to help Norway reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since returning to the competition after a 28-year absence.

England captain Kane has also impressed, taking his tournament tally to six goals and his overall World Cup total to 14 as the Three Lions reached a third successive quarter-final.

Speaking ahead of the match in Miami, Solbakken admitted both teams rely heavily on their star strikers.

"It is Norway against England, but it is no secret that Kane is England's number one match winner and Haaland is ours," he said.

England arrive under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel, who was appointed to help a talented squad finally end the country's long wait for major tournament success after a series of near misses under Gareth Southgate.

Norway, meanwhile, have been one of the surprise packages of the tournament. They stunned Brazil 2-1 in the last 16 thanks to Haaland's late double and have reached the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time in 26 years.

Solbakken said his players are embracing the occasion despite the size of the challenge.

"Every game has felt like the biggest in Norwegian football history, especially in the knockout rounds. This is another one," he said.

"I feel the players are relaxed but also very competitive."

The Norway coach believes England will carry greater expectations into the match, although he insisted pressure disappears once the game begins.

"I think England has more pressure than us, but we also put pressure on ourselves to perform. Once the match starts, the players are focused on the football."

Norway's impressive run has captured the imagination of supporters at home, with the fans' Viking rowing celebration becoming one of the memorable sights of the tournament.

Solbakken said the team's success has united the country.

"I think the whole of Norway is looking forward to tomorrow. We have already had some great nights at this World Cup and it has brought the country together," he said.

"Hopefully this won't be a one-off because I believe we will qualify for more European Championships and World Cups. But it has been 26 years since we were last here."

Both teams will also have to cope with difficult conditions in Miami, where high temperatures and heavy humidity are expected for the evening kick-off.

Solbakken said Norway have adjusted their preparations to deal with the weather.

"We have trained very lightly. We haven't done much hard work. We've focused on tactics at a lower intensity and kept the sessions short. It's all about being fresh for tomorrow," he said.

"We both have to get used to the same conditions."

READ MORE: Thomas Tuchel: England's 'hunger and grit' crucial against Norway in World Cup quarter-final