England Triumphs Over Norway to Reach World Cup Semi-Finals

In a gripping quarter-final match, England triumphed over Norway with a 2-1 victory after extra time, thanks to two goals from Jude Bellingham. The match featured a controversial VAR decision and showcased Bellingham's remarkable talent, making him the first player since Diego Maradona to score back-to-back braces in World Cup knockout stages. England's journey continues as they advance to the semi-finals for the second time in three tournaments. Discover the thrilling moments and key highlights from this unforgettable match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 12, 2026, 08:50 IST

England's Dramatic Victory

In a thrilling encounter, England defeated Norway 2-1 after extra time, securing their place in the World Cup semi-finals. Jude Bellingham was the standout player, scoring both goals for the Three Lions. The match took place under the sweltering Miami sun, where Norway initially shocked the crowd by taking the lead through Andreas Schjelderup in the 36th minute. However, Bellingham responded just before halftime, showcasing his skill to level the score. Following a controversial VAR decision that disallowed a potential second goal for Norway due to a foul by Erling Haaland, the match proceeded to extra time. Bellingham capitalized on a mistake by goalkeeper Orjan Nyland to net the winner, marking his sixth goal of the tournament.

Bellingham's Historic Achievement

Jude Bellingham Emulates Diego Maradona

With his remarkable performance, Bellingham became the first player since the legendary Diego Maradona to score consecutive braces in the knockout stages of a World Cup, a feat last accomplished in 1986.

Controversial Moments in the Match

England Eliminate Norway

Despite England's claims of a foul on Harry Kane leading up to Norway's goal, Schjelderup's mishit cross found its way into the net. Bellingham's equalizer came shortly after, bringing his tournament tally to five goals. Norway thought they had regained the lead when Torbjorn Heggem scored from a corner, but VAR intervened, ruling the goal out due to a foul by Haaland. England's goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, made several key saves to keep his team in the game. In extra time, Bellingham quickly struck again, and although England was awarded a penalty for a foul on Djed Spence, the decision was overturned after a VAR review, leading to heated debates among commentators. Ultimately, England held on to secure their spot in the semi-finals for the second time in three tournaments.