England and Norway are both dealing with illness concerns ahead of their World Cup quarter-final clash. Declan Rice, the Arsenal midfielder, has been isolated from the England squad after falling ill, compounding existing hamstring and lower back issues. The FA has taken steps to contain the potential outbreak, though insiders claim the situation is under control. Rice has missed two consecutive training sessions ahead of the match against Norway in Miami.
Meanwhile, Norway is also grappling with its own health issues. Goalkeeper Orjan Nyland confirmed that the team has been affected by illness, with two players already missing matches due to sickness. Manager Ståle Solbakken coughed violently during a press conference, and reports suggest their recent victory over Brazil may have been followed by a celebratory night out, further straining the squad.
Norway’s journey across North America—traveling between Boston, New Jersey, Dallas, and back—has reportedly taken a toll on the team, according to Norwegian outlet Dagbladet. Despite these challenges, Norway has defied expectations, reaching the quarter-finals for the first time since 1998, thanks in part to Erling Haaland’s standout performances. Haaland, who scored seven goals in the tournament, downplayed Norway’s chances of winning, calling them "really low," but acknowledged England as one of the tournament favorites.
England, meanwhile, remains confident in containing Rice’s illness, though his absence could impact their midfield dynamics. The quarter-final match is set for Saturday, July 11, in Miami, where both teams will aim to overcome their respective health challenges.