Bellingham fires England into World Cup semi-finals after dramatic extra-time win over Norway
Three Lions set up blockbuster semi-final against Argentina
MIAMI – England booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after Jude Bellingham produced another match-winning display to inspire a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in Miami.
The midfielder struck once in each half of the contest to overturn Norway's lead and send Thomas Tuchel's side into the last four, where reigning champions Argentina now await.
The result also ended Norway's memorable tournament run and saw Erling Haaland fail to score for the first time in the competition after England's defence kept the prolific striker under control.
Norway strike
Played in sweltering conditions of around 33C with high humidity, the quarter-final developed into an absorbing contest after a cautious opening. England enjoyed long spells of possession but struggled to break down a disciplined Norwegian defence, while Haaland was closely marked by John Stones and Marc Guéhi whenever the visitors looked to counter.
Norway stunned England in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup found the net from the left flank. What initially appeared to be a cross drifted beyond Jordan Pickford and into the far corner, handing the Scandinavian side an unexpected advantage. Norway almost doubled their lead shortly afterwards as Martin Ødegaard and Alexander Sørloth both threatened during England's most vulnerable spell of the match.
England, however, responded before the interval through their standout performer. Anthony Gordon's pass released Bellingham, who surged into the penalty area before calmly finishing across goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland to restore parity. The goal survived scrutiny after questions over a possible contact with an overhead camera cable, with FIFA confirming ball-tracking technology detected no touch.
Turning point
The second half remained finely balanced as Norway continued to ask difficult questions of England. Tuchel introduced Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze in search of greater attacking urgency, while Elliot Anderson impressed in midfield with his composure and work rate.
England thought they had edged ahead when Harry Kane found the net, only for the striker to be flagged offside. Norway also created promising opportunities, with Antonio Nusa and Oscar Bobb going close as both teams searched for a decisive breakthrough before the end of normal time.
Extra time finally produced the decisive moment. Morgan Rogers forced Nyland into a save, but the goalkeeper could only spill the ball into the path of Bellingham, who reacted quickest to convert from close range and complete his brace. The goal took the midfielder to six goals in the tournament, placing him among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot.
Tuchel reacts
England then saw out the closing stages despite late Norwegian pressure. Haaland, who had entered the match with six goals in four appearances, was substituted during extra time after being effectively neutralised throughout the contest. He managed only limited opportunities as England's defence prevented the Manchester City striker from making his usual impact.
Despite reaching England's first World Cup semi-final since 2018, Tuchel delivered a frank assessment of his team's display. The England manager admitted his side had made life difficult for themselves and described the performance as fortunate, insisting improvement would be essential before Wednesday's semi-final against Argentina. Bellingham, meanwhile, dismissed concerns over the criticism, pointing instead to the demanding weather conditions and England's determination to find a way through another tense knockout encounter.