How England can win the World Cup: The road to New Jersey | OneFootball

England are just three wins away from lifting the World Cup for the second time, but standing between Thomas Tuchel’s side and a place in history is a daunting knockout path featuring some of the biggest names in world football.

After seeing off Mexico in the last 16, England now know exactly what lies ahead if they are to reach the final at MetLife Stadium.

Quarter-final: England vs Norway

Hard Rock Stadium, MiamiSaturday, 11 July (22:00 BST)

England’s quarter-final assignment is a meeting with Norway in Miami on Saturday night.

Norway arrive full of confidence after eliminating Brazil and have already produced their best World Cup performance in modern times.

The biggest danger is obvious. Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has been one of the stars of the tournament, scoring seven goals despite sitting out Norway’s final group game after qualification had already been secured.

The Manchester City striker has now scored an extraordinary 62 goals in just 54 appearances for his country and will be the focal point of England’s defensive plans.

Keeping Haaland quiet would go a long way towards booking England’s place in the semi-finals.

Potential semi-final: Argentina or Switzerland

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, AtlantaWednesday, 15 July (20:00 BST)

Victory over Norway could set up one of the biggest matches of the tournament.

Defending champions Argentina remain on England’s side of the draw and are once again being inspired by Lionel Messi, who has rolled back the years with eight goals during the competition.

Argentina have not had everything their own way, though. They needed extra time to overcome surprise package Cape Verde before staging a dramatic comeback against Egypt to reach the quarter-finals.

Before any meeting with England can happen, Lionel Scaloni’s side must first overcome Switzerland, who have reached the last eight for the first time since 1954 after knocking out Colombia on penalties.

Should England reach the semi-finals, they would return to Atlanta, where they defeated DR Congo in the last 32.

Potential World Cup final

MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New JerseySunday, 19 July (20:00 BST)

If England can negotiate both Norway and a potential semi-final against Argentina or Switzerland, a place in the World Cup final awaits.

The other half of the draw remains packed with contenders.

France continue to look one of the strongest teams left in the competition, while Spain are chasing a second World Cup title. Morocco, surprise semi-finalists four years ago, are also still standing and continue to prove they belong among the elite.

France and Morocco meet in a blockbuster quarter-final, while Spain face Belgium for a place in the last four.

Whoever emerges will provide England with one final obstacle on the biggest stage of all, with more than 82,000 fans expected to pack MetLife Stadium for football’s biggest match.

England’s route to glory

Quarter-final: vs Norway Miami. Saturday, 11 July (22:00 BST)

Potential semi-final: Argentina or Switzerland

Atlanta  Wednesday, 15 July (20:00 BST)

Potential final: vs France, Spain, Morocco or Belgium

East Rutherford, New Jersey — Sunday, 19 July (20:00 BST)

Three victories now separate England from ending 60 years of hurt. Brazil’s elimination has opened up England’s side of the draw, but with Haaland potentially followed by Messi standing in their way, Tuchel’s men still have plenty to do before they can think about lifting the trophy.