When England takes the pitch against Norway on Saturday in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals, the team will do so without Jarell Quansah. On Thursday, FIFA handed Quansah a two-game ban after the defender received a red card during the team’s game against Mexico.
That means Quansah would also be ineligible to play during the semifinals should England defeat Norway on Saturday.
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Quansah, 23, received a red card in the 52nd minute of the team’s game against Mexico on Sunday. During a challenge, Quansah slid into an opposing player with his foot elevated, eventually resulting in a red card.
Quansah was sent off, though England still held on for the 3-2 win.
The usual penalty for a red card is a one-game ban for a player. In this instance, FIFA must have felt Quansah’s challenge was reckless enough to warrant an additional game.
That decision will almost certainly be met with controversy, especially after FIFA rescinded a one-game ban for USMNT star Folarin Balogun after he received a red card in a game vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina. That decision was criticized heavily by some who felt the United States was receiving preferential treatment for being one of the host countries for the World Cup. It didn’t help matters that U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed he spoke with FIFA president Gianni Infantino about the situation.
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Balogun was allowed to play in the USMNT’s next game, a 4-1 loss to Belgium.
A day after Quansah received his red card against Mexico, the English Football Federation was reportedly considering its options for contesting a suspension, per The Athletic. It’s unclear what path the English FA will take now that Quansah was banned for two games.
Quansah’s absence could play a significant role in Saturday’s game. While England is considered the favorite, Norway — led by Erling Haaland — is similarly strong. Both teams have what it takes to win the 2026 World Cup, making Saturday’s game the most anticipated match of the quarterfinals.
