Jude Bellingham delivered another match-winning performance as England defeated Norway 2-1 after extra time to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals. Playing in extremely hot and humid conditions at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, England recovered from a first-half deficit to keep their title hopes alive.
Norway took the lead in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup’s effort found the net after beating goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. The Scandinavian side created further opportunities and nearly doubled their advantage, but England survived a series of dangerous attacks.
Just before halftime, Anthony Gordon set up Bellingham, who produced a composed finish to level the score. The goal came amid controversy as Norway claimed the ball had struck a camera cable in the build-up, but FIFA later confirmed there was no evidence of any interference.
The second half saw Norway push hard for another goal, with Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard leading the attack. A Norwegian goal was ruled out for a foul by Haaland, while Kristoffer Ajer struck the crossbar as England struggled to regain control.
With the match heading toward penalties, Bellingham once again proved decisive. In the third minute of extra time, Morgan Rogers’ long-range effort was spilled by goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, allowing Bellingham to react quickest and score the winner from close range.
England survived a late scare after a penalty awarded for a foul on Djed Spence was overturned following a VAR review. Thomas Tuchel’s side held firm through the closing stages to book a semifinal clash against either Argentina or Switzerland.
Bellingham’s two-goal display further strengthened his remarkable World Cup campaign, taking his tally to six goals in the tournament and seven overall in World Cup history. The 23-year-old continues to establish himself as one of England’s greatest performers on football’s biggest stage.
While England celebrated progression, Tuchel admitted his team was below its best, citing sloppy play and the physical toll of competing in Florida’s intense heat. Nevertheless, the Three Lions advanced to their fourth FIFA World Cup semifinal and remain two victories away from lifting the trophy.