Noni Madueke is convinced that England has cultivated a sense of intimidation at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after reaching the semi-finals for the fourth time in their history.
Thomas Tuchel’s squad rallied to defeat Norway 2-1 after extra time on Saturday, with Jude Bellingham netting twice to secure a showdown with Argentina in the last four.
The win in Miami followed an exhilarating 3-2 victory over Mexico on their home turf and a gritty 2-1 triumph against DR Congo, matches where Bellingham and Harry Kane excelled, combining for five goals.
Madueke asserts that the in-form forwards of the Three Lions will give the opposition something to think about as England strives to add a second star to their jersey in the United States.
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When asked about his feelings ahead of Wednesday’s match against Lionel Messi and his teammates during the latest episode of Lions’ Den Connected by EE, Madueke said (via England football.com): “Very confident.”
“As B [Bukayo Saka] mentioned, we have match-winners and throughout the tournament, we haven’t really dwelled on the opposition in a way that makes us anxious about them.
“I believe other teams will be more concerned about us.”
“Often, it comes down to key moments,” added Bukayo Saka, who was seated with his Arsenal colleagues Madueke and Eberechi Eze on the Lions’ Den sofa.
