Bellingham leads England to comeback win over Norway.. “Three Lions” in semi-finals
World Cup 2026 – Quarter-final – England vs Norway: Real Madrid star’s brace sends England through to semi-finals after extra-time thriller, as Norway exit without blame in one of the tournament’s cruelest nights
England came from behind to snatch a dramatic extra-time victory over Norway, thanks to a Jude Bellingham brace, setting up a semi-final clash with the winner of Argentina vs Switzerland, in a match where Norway came close to causing a major upset.
Norway 1-2 England (after extra time)
Andreas Schjelderup opened the scoring for Norway in the 36th minute with a stunning strike that beat Pickford, hit the far post, and nestled into the net, giving the “Vikings” a deserved lead.
But Bellingham equalized in first-half stoppage time (45+2), finishing off a counter-attack with his trademark composure inside the area, restoring hope for the “Three Lions” before the break.
In the 93rd minute of the first extra-time period, the Real Madrid star was there again, following up a Morgan Rogers shot that Norway goalkeeper Nyland failed to handle, grabbing his second and the winning goal to send Thomas Tuchel’s side through.
Norway didn’t deserve to lose.. But football’s law is unforgiving
Norway produced one of their best performances of the tournament and looked close to achieving an unprecedented feat by reaching the semi-finals. But football, as always, can only have one winner.
The Norwegian performance was fierce and organized, creating several chances on Pickford’s goal, especially in the second half, one of which could have changed the game, but luck was not on the “Vikings'” side on multiple occasions.
Norway had a goal ruled out by VAR for Heggem after Haaland’s push on an England defender, and Ayer’s header hit the crossbar.
England deserved to win.. Thanks to mental resilience
In contrast, England deserve praise for their mental resilience and ability to contain Norway’s aggression.
After a tough match against Mexico in the round of 16, which drained the players physically and mentally, the “Three Lions” showed clear signs of fatigue, appearing slow and hesitant at times, unable to match Norway’s intensity.
But Thomas Tuchel, England’s manager, managed to secure the win, relying on the experience of his star players and the energy brought by his substitutes. Most importantly, England showed exceptional ability to absorb pressure, neutralize Norway’s attacking threat, and turn defense into dangerous counter-attacks, with the Norwegian goalkeeper denying several clear chances.
A match worth watching.
Bellingham makes history.. England await Argentina or Switzerland
With this brace, Bellingham took his tally to 6 goals in the tournament, level with teammate Harry Kane as the “Three Lions'” top scorer. This is the first World Cup edition where two England players have scored five or more goals each.
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford also entered England’s history books, becoming the most capped England goalkeeper in World Cup history, making his 18th appearance in the tournament, surpassing the legendary record of Peter Shilton.
England will face either defending champions Argentina or tournament surprise package Switzerland in the semi-finals on July 15, in a match that will be a true test of the “Three Lions'” title ambitions, especially if Argentina go through. Meanwhile, Norway showed the world that football is not always fair, but it is always exciting.
Match highlights: England vs Norway
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