Norway's Erling Haaland shifts World Cup pressure onto 'favourites' England

The Norway striker has been one of the stars of the tournament, scoring seven goals in four matches, including two in his side's impressive last-16 victory over Brazil to help secure a place in the quarter-finals.

Despite Norway's outstanding run, Haaland insisted England should be regarded as the favourites.

"I think there's some clear favourites out there, England's one of them," Haaland said.

"I think all of you should put every single pressure on the English lads."

The match has added significance for the Manchester City forward, who was born in England while his father, Alf-Inge Haaland, was playing for Leeds United. Having spent the past four seasons in the Premier League, Haaland knows many of England's players well.

"It's a special game, definitely," he said.

"For me it's super special because I play in England and I was born in England. You also play against teammates and everything. It's a funny game and it's going to be nice."

Norway are competing in their first World Cup in 28 years and have exceeded expectations by reaching the last eight, something Haaland admitted even surprised him.

"I didn't expect it, to be honest," he said.

"To be in the quarter-finals with Norway in the World Cup is quite surprising even for me."

The striker said beating Brazil was a moment Norwegian fans will never forget.

"Playing against Brazil was kind of crazy for us Norwegians, and to win against Brazil and then go and play England in the quarter-finals in the World Cup in the USA is quite special.

"If you watch the scenes back in Norway, this is not normal for Norway, so it's super special."

While Norway have been one of the tournament's surprise packages, England have reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the third tournament in a row. However, the Three Lions are still chasing their first major international trophy in 60 years.

Haaland has also become one of the biggest attractions at the tournament in the United States. His performances on the pitch, combined with his relaxed personality, have made him a fan favourite.

After scoring the winning goal against Ivory Coast in the Round of 32, Haaland visited Dallas and dressed as a cowboy, with videos of him wearing a cowboy hat and boots quickly going viral.

Reflecting on his growing popularity in the United States, Haaland said he has enjoyed every part of the tournament.

"It's a good thing because I like the Americans. I think they are kind of hilarious as well. They are funny, so I like the way they are," he said.

"Honestly, every single thing with the World Cup so far has been amazing. From the games to the stadiums, everything has been amazing.

"The training ground where we train has been amazing, so I'm super happy and it's been impressive."