England faces Norway in World Cup quarterfinal amid weather concerns
England prepares for Norway challenge
England is set to play Norway in a World Cup quarterfinal match in Miami. The winner of this match will advance to face either Switzerland or Argentina in the semi-finals. Kick-off is scheduled for 5 p.m. ET, 10 p.m. BST.
Several changes are expected for England’s starting lineup. Noni Madueke will return to the starting XI, replacing Bukayo Saka. Ezri Konsa is also slated to start at right-back. These selections follow news regarding Madueke and Konsa’s inclusion, allowing for a clearer picture of Tuchel’s team.
For Norway, there is speculation regarding the starting roles of Oscar Bobb and Andreas Schjelderup, who made an impact off the bench in their previous game against Brazil. David Moller Wolfe has shown strong form in the tournament, which may have surprised those who followed his club performances. England, particularly Konsa and Madueke, will need a strategy to counter Moller Wolfe’s runs, which create space for Antonio Nusa on the wing.
Team news and tactical considerations
Positive injury updates for England include the fitness of Declan Rice and Marc Guehi. Rice has been a key player, allowing Jude Bellingham to influence games. Guehi and Konsa have formed a strong center-back partnership, and while moving Konsa to right-back is not ideal, it avoids disrupting both defenders.
John Stones is recalled to the starting lineup, a decision that has been highlighted as significant. Stones started the opening game but had not been in the lineup since. His impressive performance off the bench in Mexico City led to his return. His comfort in possession is seen as an advantage, especially if the heat and humidity lead to a slower-paced game. Stones’ return and Konsa’s shift to right-back are considered pragmatic choices for this match, particularly given Stones’ experience playing against Erling Haaland at club level.
The decision to start Madueke is aimed at providing greater mobility on the wing. While Saka offers quality in the final third, Madueke is currently seen as sharper and provides an effective outlet to exploit space behind Norway’s defense. Konsa’s role at right-back will involve containing Nusa, who is known for cutting inside onto his right foot.
For Norway, there is a possibility that Alexander Sorloth could be dropped from the starting XI. While Sorloth offers a long-ball option and a presence in set pieces, his mobility as a winger when Norway has possession is a concern. Bobb and Schjelderup offer more mobility in wide areas. Schjelderup was instrumental in Norway’s 2-1 victory over Brazil, assisting both of Haaland’s goals after being introduced as a substitute.
Weather conditions and potential delays
The weather forecast for the match in Miami indicates temperatures in the 90s and partly cloudy conditions. A heat advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. local time, with the heat index expected to reach 108 degrees. The Risk of Weather Impact (ROWI) is currently assessed as medium.
Hydration breaks, which are mandatory three-minute stoppages at the midpoint of each half, have been implemented in the World Cup due to high heat and humidity. These breaks allow players to rehydrate on the sidelines.
Thunderstorms are the primary factor for weather delays in the World Cup. Play is suspended if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium and can only resume after 30 minutes without further lightning. Any new lightning detection resets this countdown, potentially leading to extended delays. There is no fixed time limit for abandoning a match, with each situation evaluated individually. The Mexico vs. England round of 16 game in Mexico City on July 5 experienced a one-hour delay due to weather.
FIFA officials have not discussed potential delays for today’s match, despite some public discussion. The match is currently scheduled to kick off as planned.
England fans are present in Miami, with fan zones in Oslo also experiencing significant excitement, including queues from early morning on Saturday.
The winners of this quarterfinal will face either Switzerland or reigning champions Argentina in the semi-finals.
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Source: nytimes.com
