Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne has predicted a highly competitive match for the national team ahead of their World Cup quarter-final against Norway on Saturday, July 11, 2026.
Appearing on Good Morning Britain, the 59-year-old former player indicated that manager Thomas Tuchel's squad would face significant difficulties.
He expressed doubt that the team would secure a victory within regular tournament time.
When asked for his specific match prediction, Gascoigne pointed to a tied scoreline at the end of regulation.
"A draw. I think it's going to be a tough game, to be fair," he said.
The veteran midfielder emphasized the defensive and physical resilience of the upcoming opposition based on his historical experience on the pitch.
"I think it'll be a really, really tough game," Gascoigne said.
Gascoigne recalled facing the Scandinavian side during his playing career to contextualize his cautious outlook. "I've played against Norway and they are a tough team," he said.
He then referenced the lengthy championship drought experienced by the English national team, which has extended for six decades.
"We've been saying for so many years we're going to win the World Cup. Since 1966," Gascoigne said.
The former athlete, who has previously discussed his use of cosmetic anti-aging procedures, injected humor into the discussion regarding a potential tournament victory.
"I'm going to have to get more Botox if that's going to happen," he said.
Program presenter Kate Garraway responded directly to his humorous remark during the live broadcast.
"You'll have to show an expression if they win and you can't at the moment, that's what you're saying," she said.
The former footballer briefly affirmed the presenter's observation before details of his viewing plans emerged. "Exactly," Gascoigne said.
To avoid public attention and disruptions, Gascoigne revealed his intention to watch the high-stakes international fixture privately from his home.
"I get pestered. You'd think I was in the World Cup," he said.
He described the constant public recognition as highly overwhelming when attempting to navigate daily life during major football tournaments.
"I'm getting pestered wherever I go. It's a bit of a nightmare," Gascoigne said.
Consequently, the former player opted to remain isolated in his private quarters rather than attending a public screening or stadium.
"So, I'll probably be sitting on my bed watching it with a cup of water," he said.
The television appearance followed an emotional interview on the same broadcasting couch the previous month, where Gascoigne discussed the impact of his published memoir, Eight: The Real Gazza.
"A lot of people have come up said they've read it, and it helped them save their life," he said.
Gascoigne, who has publicly detailed his historical struggles with substance addiction and retirement, expressed his core motivation for releasing the book.
"Like I said, you know ... if that book can save one person's life then I've done my job," he said.
He then cited global statistics surrounding addiction illnesses to underscore the gravity of the recovery community's challenges. "Two million addicts and alcoholics die each week.
It's a lot," Gascoigne said.
The former player emphasized how deeply meaningful the feedback from readers has been throughout his personal recovery journey.
"When people come up to you and say they've read the book and how it's helped them ... it means a hell of a lot," he said.
He acknowledged the extensive support systems that assisted him during his personal crises over the years. "Because I've had a lot of help in my time.
I've learned a lot," Gascoigne said.
The interview concluded with a final lighthearted remark from the former England international regarding his own literary work.
"I think I should read it myself, you know. Do myself a favour," he said.
