Tough World Cup Dilemma: Harry Kane (England) or Erling Haaland (Norway)?

"If I truly have to choose, I'm going with Harry Kane," states Maaskant ahead of the World Cup clash between Norway and England. "However, when you see how Haaland decided the match against Brazil… He's nothing short of a phenomenon." The former coach is referring to the Norwegian's header goal against Brazil.

Former top footballer Hedwiges Maduro echoes his fellow pundit's sentiments. "Haaland's first goal against Brazil was truly magnificent. To see him running from a great distance, then scanning the situation, and then it's just: boom. The power with which he heads that ball in is world-class. As a defender, you're simply helpless," he praises.

Although Maaskant ultimately opts for the English captain, he visibly enjoys Haaland's World Cup performances. The Norwegian led his country to the quarter-finals with seven goals in four appearances, particularly impressing in the match against Brazil. "It's simply remarkable how Haaland single-handedly carries a mediocre team and consistently delivers decisive moments. That's the definition of a phenomenon."

However, according to Maaskant, Harry Kane's impact should not be overlooked. The English top scorer has netted six goals and provided one assist. "Kane is also consistently clinical and simply makes England play better football. If I have to choose, I'm going for him. Haaland can have his turn in four years; I don't know if Kane (32 years old, ed.) will still be around then. So, let Kane shine now."

Maduro was also impressed by the Norwegian superstar striker, but he expects England to ultimately be too strong for Norway. "You never know with Haaland, of course, but I think England will even go on to win the World Cup," predicts the former top footballer.

Saturday evening features an absolute blockbuster quarter-final match at the World Cup. Norway takes on England, making the encounter also seen as a battle between two world-class strikers: Erling Haaland and Harry Kane. Both forwards are in top form and must lead their countries to a spot in the semi-finals.

In the latest episode of the Sportnieuws.nl World Cup Football Podcast, host Damian Vlottes, along with Robert Maaskant, Hedwiges Maduro, and football reporter Aron Kattenpoel Oude Heerink, discuss frustrations over alleged 'corruption' surrounding Argentina, the search for a new national coach for Oranje, and doubts about Arne Slot as a potential successor.

Listen to the new episode on your favorite podcast platform or watch the broadcast on YouTube from Sunday at 7:30 AM.