England are just one victory away from reaching their first men’s World Cup final since 1966 after Jude Bellingham produced a match winning performance in a dramatic extra time victory over Norway in Miami.
Thomas Tuchel’s team were pushed to their limits in difficult heat and humid conditions, but Bellingham scored twice to secure England’s place in the semi finals. Argentina now await in a huge last four encounter.
Norway struck first in the 36th minute through Andreas Schjelderup. His dipping shot caught Jordan Pickford off guard and found the net, putting England under serious pressure.
Once again, Bellingham provided the answer. Deep into first half stoppage time, the Real Madrid midfielder controlled Anthony Gordon’s pass with excellent composure before finishing past Orjan Nyland to level the score.
Tuchel made two changes at the interval. Declan Rice, who had been dealing with fitness and illness concerns, and Noni Madueke were replaced by Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka.
Norway continued to create danger after the restart. Torbjorn Heggem thought he had restored their advantage, but the effort was disallowed after Erling Haaland pushed Elliot Anderson. David Moller Wolfe also came close when his header struck the crossbar.
With neither side able to find a winner in normal time, the contest moved into extra time.
Three minutes into the additional period, Bellingham reacted quickest after Nyland failed to hold Morgan Rogers’ attempt. The England star converted the loose ball to complete his brace and put his country ahead.
The two goals took Bellingham’s tournament total to six and further strengthened his reputation as England’s key player in crucial moments.
Haaland, meanwhile, endured a frustrating evening. The Manchester City forward entered the quarter final with seven goals at the tournament but struggled to influence proceedings. He had limited opportunities and was eventually withdrawn at the extra time interval.
Despite the defeat, Norway leave the competition after an impressive campaign, with Haaland playing a major role in their memorable journey.
For England, attention now turns to Argentina. The Three Lions have reached their third World Cup semi final since winning the trophy 60 years ago, following previous last four defeats in 1990 and 2018.
This time, inspired by an in form Bellingham, England will hope to take the final step towards football’s biggest stage.
