Former England internationals, Kyle Walker and Micah Richards have agreed that there is only one team capable of preventing the Three Lions from achieving a historic second World Cup victory.
England secured their spot in the World Cup quarter-finals following a remarkable 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium.
Thomas Tuchel’s squad faced a challenging atmosphere, adverse conditions, and a red card issued to Jarell Quansah, yet they managed to hold on for one of England’s most notable triumphs in tournament history.
As a result, England will face Norway in the last eight, after Norway stunned five-time champions Brazil in New Jersey.
Walker believes that Norway could pose a significant challenge for England when the two teams clash on Saturday evening in Miami.
He said on The Sun’s YouTube channel, “I mean no disrespect to Brazil, as they are an exceptional team, but I would likely prefer to face Brazil as England.
“I perceive that there are opportunities to exploit their weaknesses, particularly with Casemiro and the midfield dynamics. I believe we could potentially outpace them.
“However, Norway is a well-structured team.
“They do not seem overly concerned about ball possession. Yet, when they do have the ball, it is evident that they can play effectively. They possess formidable players up front.
“With Erling Haaland and Odegaard in their current form, I think they could present a genuine challenge. But I hope England replicates the performance they delivered against Mexico.”
If England advances past Norway, they will encounter a semi-final match against either Argentina or Switzerland.
On the other draw, France will play against Morocco, while Spain faces Belgium for a chance to reach the final four.
Nevertheless, Walker is optimistic that England can progress, stating, “I believe that England should feel somewhat disappointed if they do not reach the final now.
“This is not pressure from me. I have experienced the other side of it when everyone insists that you should achieve certain outcomes and should not fail to do so.
“But I feel it’s a great chance and a great opportunity to go and make history and you need to take it with both hands.
“It’s not ours to lose, I don’t feel. I still feel that France are probably the favourites to win it.”
That sentiment is shared by fellow former England defender Micah Richards, who said after England’s win on Sunday, “I think the only team that really worry me is France. They’re so dynamic.”