Bellingham’s Extra-Time Brace Secures England’s Spot in World Cup Semifinals

England triumphed over Norway with a 2-1 victory at Miami Stadium on Saturday, thanks to a remarkable performance by Jude Bellingham, who scored both goals, including the decisive extra-time winner. This victory propels England into the World Cup semi-finals for the fourth time in history.

Match Overview

The match began with both teams displaying a cautious approach, but Norway broke the deadlock in the 36th minute. Andreas Schjelderup unleashed a stunning strike, putting Norway ahead. Just before halftime, Bellingham responded, equalizing with a well-placed shot into the area.

As the match progressed into extra time, Morgan Rogers attempted a long-range shot that Norwegian goalkeeper Orjan Nyland could only parry. Bellingham capitalized on the rebound, securing the win for England in front of a crowd of 64,478.

England’s next challenge will be against Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday, marking their fourth semi-final appearance in the last five major championships. They aim to replicate their only World Cup victory from 1966.

Coach’s Reflections

England’s coach, Thomas Tuchel, expressed mixed feelings about the performance. While he acknowledged the significance of reaching the semi-finals, he criticized the team’s execution. He noted, “We made life very, very difficult for ourselves in the way we played. Sloppy, a lot of technical mistakes, not fast enough, not repetitive enough. We were lucky today.”

Norway, despite the loss, displayed resilience throughout the match. They managed to keep Erling Haaland scoreless for the first time in 16 matches. Norway’s captain, Martin Odegaard, reflected on the experience, stating, “It is a bit bitter, but it has been an adventure. We must be proud. We are here for the first time in a long time, and we are making our mark. The whole world is talking about us.”

First Half Highlights

The first half was characterized by a tense atmosphere, likely influenced by the sweltering heat. Norway’s Julian Ryerson created an opportunity for Haaland, whose header was saved by England’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford. Shortly after, Patrick Berg intercepted Harry Kane’s pass and set up Schjelderup, who skillfully maneuvered past England’s Ezri Konsa to score.

Norway continued to apply pressure, with Alexander Sorloth and Martin Odegaard both coming close to extending their lead. However, a missed two-on-one opportunity in the 44th minute proved costly. In stoppage time, Bellingham’s equalizer came from a clever pass by Anthony Gordon, showcasing his skill and composure.

Norway’s coach, Stale Solbakken, later remarked that England’s possession was aided by an accidental deflection off a camera cable during a clearance. However, FIFA confirmed that the ball’s sensor did not register any interference.

VAR Decisions Impact the Match

The second half saw VAR play a crucial role. Ten minutes in, Torbjorn Heggem thought he had scored for Norway, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul by Haaland on Elliot Anderson. Norway introduced winger Oscar Bobb in the 67th minute, which shifted the momentum back in their favor. England was fortunate to avoid conceding when David Moller Wolfe’s header struck the crossbar.

England’s Bukayo Saka made significant contributions, nearly assisting his team in taking the lead with a dangerous cross. However, the match remained level as the second half concluded without further goals.

In extra time, VAR intervened again, ruling out a penalty awarded to England after Bellingham’s second goal. Haaland, unable to add to his tournament tally, was substituted at halftime of the extra period. Despite Norway’s efforts to find an equalizer, England’s defense held firm, ensuring their place in the semi-finals.

Solbakken expressed disappointment but acknowledged the quality of football displayed by his team, stating, “We played fantastic football against a super team, but we didn’t make it.”

As reported by www.arnnewscentre.ae.

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Published on 2026-07-12 09:08:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk