Leeds United’s Norwegian fans on England World Cup clash of two homes | OneFootball

England face Norway at the World Cup tonight, a tie that resonates in Leeds United circles given the club’s vast Norwegian following. Leeds-born Erling Haaland and his team stand between Thomas Tuchel’s England and a semi-final spot.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, Elland Road draws large numbers from Scandinavia on matchdays, with Norwegians especially prominent. That bond grew during Don Revie’s trophy years on Norwegian television, and was underlined by Leeds’ friendly in Oslo against Manchester United two years ago.

Anders Palm expects a tight contest, potentially settled on penalties or by a single goal. He usually supports England when Norway are not involved, so says losing to England would be easier to accept, and he will watch with both Norwegian and English friends.

Trym I. Hagalia admits it feels unusual to oppose a country he spends so much time with through Leeds, calling it a clash between two homes. He will still back Norway, believes the game will be close, and tips a 2-1 win.

Terje Ulven is thrilled by a quarter-final he felt could have been a final, and notes one of his favourite teams is guaranteed the semi-finals. With no Leeds players in England’s squad, he is siding with Norway and says making the last four could be Norway’s greatest sporting achievement.

Kjell Bjørn Vinje, raised on Leeds and English football and a regular matchgoer in England, says his heart is with Norway on Saturday. He argues England have reputation while Norway have momentum, doubts England’s superpower aura, and adds that leaving out Justin, Bogle and Calvert-Lewin will not strengthen them.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk