MIAMI:
England beat Norway in extra time to book their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a thrilling encounter with young star Jude Bellingham once again at the heart of the team’s hopes.
In the quarter-finals played in Miami, England faced intense heat and tough competition, but a fine performance by Bellingham saved the team from defeat and gave them victory. England are now just one win away from reaching their first World Cup final since 1966.
The match started cautiously from both teams, but in the 36th minute, Norway’s Andreas Sheldrup escaped England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford with a brilliant shot to give his team the lead.
England responded quickly and in first-half stoppage time, Jude Bellingham scored from Anthony Gordon’s fine pass to wrap up the contest.
In the second half, England coach Thomas Tuchel changed tactics and made changes, bringing on Ibrechi Eze and Bokayo Saka. Norway also made several dangerous attacks, but England’s defensive line remained strong.
At the start of extra time, Bellingham once again showed their talent and scored to give England the lead.
Norway goalkeeper Orian Nyland tried to block Morgan Rodgers’ shot, but Bellingham took advantage of the opportunity and put the ball into the net.
The star of Norway, Erling Holland, could not stand out significantly in the match and was removed from the field in extra time.
England have now reached their third World Cup semi-final. The team previously lost in the semi-finals against Germany in 1990 and Croatia in 2018, but is now determined to repeat the historic victory of 1966.
