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England International Highlights Team's Advantage Over Norway

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England is set to face Norway in one of the most anticipated quarter-final clashes of the World Cup. The "Three Lions" successfully navigated a formidable challenge just days ago, eliminating Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca. This marked the first defeat for one of the co-hosts at their legendary venue, which has hosted matches across three World Cup tournaments.

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Nico O'Reilly has emerged as a pivotal figure in Thomas Tuchel's squad, consistently featuring in the starting lineup. O'Reilly believes that the experience gained from participating in such a crucial stage, whether positive or negative, can only be beneficial.

Jordan Pickford, John Stones, Jordan Henderson, Marcus Rashford, and Harry Kane were all part of the 2018 squad, while eight players from Tuchel's current team were in Gareth Southgate's group that suffered defeat four years prior. England will make their third consecutive World Cup quarter-final appearance against Norway, having beaten Sweden in 2018 and lost to France in 2022.

"We have a lot of players who have been in similar situations, in quarter-finals before," O'Reilly told reporters on Friday. "Many experienced and older players. Of course, they help us. They give us advice, tell us to stay calm, and just help us in any way they can."

Kane is one of the players O'Reilly immediately highlights when discussing the experienced leaders within the camp.

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"He's a world-class player and also a very good person," O'Reilly explained. "He motivates us on and off the pitch, he sets the standards and dictates the tone. It's incredible to have him in the team," O'Reilly stated.

The defender enjoyed a breakthrough season at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, making 53 appearances for the club across all competitions. At just 21 years old, O'Reilly is making his mark in his first major international tournament, having played in all five of England's matches so far, starting in four of them.

"It makes me feel proud," he said. "It's a privilege and an honor to play for my country, to represent it, to wear this badge, and to show what I'm capable of, trying to give my best in every training session and every match."

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