
England are through to the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after Jude Bellingham scored twice in a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway at Miami Stadium.
Norway struck first through Andreas Schjelderup in the 36th minute, putting England under serious pressure in their quarter-final clash. But Bellingham delivered when his country needed him most, equalising in first-half stoppage time before scoring the decisive goal in extra time.
The victory keeps England’s World Cup dream alive, while Norway’s impressive campaign ends after a hard-fought contest that lasted 120 minutes.
Norway made the breakthrough nine minutes before half-time. Schjelderup found the net in the 36th minute, giving his team a 1-0 advantage and leaving England chasing the game.
England responded before the interval, however, with Bellingham scoring in the second minute of first-half stoppage time. His equaliser sent the teams into the break level at 1-1 and shifted the momentum of the quarter-final.
Both teams searched for a winner during the second half, but neither could break the deadlock. The match consequently moved into extra time with a place in the World Cup semi-finals still at stake.
Bellingham completed England’s comeback in the 93rd minute, scoring shortly after the beginning of extra time to put the Three Lions ahead for the first time.
Norway continued fighting for an equaliser, but England protected their narrow advantage throughout the remaining extra-time period.
The result was particularly painful for Norway, who saw their World Cup journey end despite taking the lead and pushing England all the way to 120 minutes.
Erling Haaland was replaced at the extra-time interval, with Jørgen Strand Larsen entering for the final period. England also made several changes as they attempted to manage the match and preserve their advantage.
The 2-1 victory puts England among the final four teams at the 2026 World Cup. Bellingham was once again the difference-maker, scoring both England goals in a high-pressure knockout match.
His first goal rescued England before half-time, while his second secured their progression and ended Norway’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals.
England will now prepare for another major test in the next round as they move within one victory of the World Cup final.
Fresh football stories, match reactions, and tournament updates — delivered without the noise.
No Comments