England booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup with a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway, overturning a first-half deficit thanks to another decisive display from Jude Bellingham. The midfielder struck twice to complete the comeback, taking his tournament tally to six goals and moving alongside Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi in the scoring standings.
The match was another example of Bellingham’s influence, with the England playmaker producing the moments that transformed a contest his team had struggled to control. After the final whistle, head coach Thomas Tuchel admitted that England “need to be better,” while Bellingham once again delivered when it mattered most.
There was further contrast between the two leading stars on the pitch as Erling Haaland left the field in tears at half-time of extra time, while England celebrated progression into only the fourth World Cup semi-final in their history.
Bellingham changes the game
Norway had every reason to believe they could reach the last four after creating problems for England throughout long periods of the match. Andreas Schjelderup gave his side the lead when his attempted cross deceived Jordan Pickford, leaving England searching for a response before the interval.
That answer came from Bellingham. Carrying the ball towards the edge of the penalty area, he shrugged off two challenges before firing beyond Orjan Nyland to bring England level just before half-time. The goal shifted the momentum after a spell in which England had looked unsettled.
Extra time brought another controversial moment when there were questions over whether Nyland’s clearance had struck the overhead television cable, although FIFA stated that the ball sensor detected no contact. Regardless of the discussion, Bellingham reacted quickest when Morgan Rogers’ powerful effort was spilled by the Norwegian goalkeeper, converting the rebound to complete England’s turnaround.
Tuchel faces questions despite qualification
Although England advanced, the performance exposed several issues that Tuchel must address before the semi-finals. Norway enjoyed lengthy spells of possession, particularly after the break, and often appeared more comfortable on the ball despite England possessing greater technical quality and a stronger squad.
Frequent positional adjustments also disrupted England’s rhythm, with players operating in unfamiliar roles and several tactical changes affecting the balance of the side. As Declan Rice dealt with fitness problems, Tuchel introduced Eberechi Eze into midfield, but England struggled even more in that area as the match continued.
Djed Spence nevertheless produced an encouraging display, providing energy and attacking intent from left-back. He also came close to winning a penalty before the decision was overturned, giving England another positive contribution during a difficult evening.
Norway bow out after brave effort
Norway’s campaign ended in disappointment despite another determined performance. The side created a memorable run to the quarter-finals and, for significant periods, looked capable of eliminating England before Bellingham’s decisive intervention changed the outcome.
Haaland was unable to influence the contest before leaving the field during extra time, while England ultimately relied on the quality of their standout performer to keep their World Cup dream alive. Bellingham’s latest match-winning display carried his country into the last four and left Tuchel’s team one step closer to the biggest prize.