Bellingham Brace Sends England into World Cup Semi-finals
Jude Bellingham scored twice as England fought back from a goal down to defeat Norway 2-1 after extra time and secure a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Real Madrid midfielder produced another match-winning display, cancelling out Andreas Schjelderup’s first-half opener before netting the decisive goal in extra time to send Thomas Tuchel’s side into the last four, where they will face either defending champions Argentina or Switzerland.
Norway made the brighter start at Miami Stadium and deservedly took the lead in the 36th minute. After Erling Haaland had earlier tested Jordan Pickford with a header, Schjelderup fired a cross-shot into the far corner to put the Scandinavian side ahead.
England responded just before the interval as Bellingham embarked on a surging run before calmly finishing to level the scores in first-half stoppage time. Harry Kane thought he had completed the turnaround moments later, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
Norway came close to regaining the lead after the break when Torbjorn Heggem found the net, only for VAR to disallow the goal after Haaland was adjudged to have pushed Elliot Anderson in the build-up.
Kristoffer Ajer also rattled the crossbar as England survived sustained pressure.
With the match heading for penalties, Bellingham struck the decisive blow in the 93rd minute of extra time.
The midfielder reacted quickest after goalkeeper Orjan Nyland spilled a fierce effort from substitute Morgan Rogers, bundling home from close range to complete England’s comeback and end Norway’s impressive World Cup campaign.
Bellingham’s brace also saw him join captain Harry Kane on six goals at the tournament, marking the first time two England players have scored at least five goals at a single FIFA World Cup.
The quarter-final also saw Jordan Pickford become England’s most-capped goalkeeper in World Cup history with his 18th appearance, surpassing the previous record held by Peter Shilton.
England will now travel to Atlanta Stadium for the semi-final on July 15 as they continue their quest for a second FIFA World Cup title.
