England have advanced to the World Cup 2026 semi-finals after a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory against Norway in Miami. The match saw Jude Bellingham score both goals for the Three Lions, who had to come from behind to secure their place in the next round.
The quarter-final clash, played on Saturday, 11 July 2026, was a significant test for England. They had previously overcome Mexico in the last round at the Azteca Stadium, despite playing with ten men after Jarell Quansah’s red card. Norway, meanwhile, entered the match fresh from a win against Brazil, with Erling Haaland scoring both goals in that encounter, bringing his tournament tally to seven.
Match Overview and Key Performances
The game saw Norway open the scoring, with Andreas Schjelderup’s cross leading to the first goal. England’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, who became the most-capped player for England in World Cups, was caught out by the cross. His performance was described as uncertain, despite his historical achievement.
England’s defence faced a strong challenge from Erling Haaland. Marc Guehi was noted for effectively marshalling the dangerous striker, a particularly impressive feat given that the centre-back had been managing a hamstring issue. John Stones also played a crucial role, making an important interception that prevented a potential Haaland chance, though he was fortunate to avoid a costly error after being caught on the ball in a difficult area.
In midfield, Declan Rice, who had been dealing with an illness during the week, was positioned as England’s deepest midfielder. He was substituted at half-time, with his performance not appearing to be at 100%. Elliot Anderson started in a more advanced position and was instrumental in setting up the move that led to England’s equaliser before moving to his familiar number six role.
Nico O’Reilly, the Manchester City player, was tasked with a complex role as left-back, also providing an option in the left-sided number 10 space when England had possession. He faced pressure from Alexander Sorloth, who nearly capitalised on a moment when O’Reilly was pinned.
Turning Point and Substitutions
England’s attack saw Noni Madueke and Anthony Gordon start on the wings. Madueke had a disappointing first half and was taken off at half-time. Gordon, however, brought energy to the attack and provided the assist for Bellingham’s equaliser. Harry Kane, the England captain, found little space against a well-organised Norway defence and had a goal disallowed for offside in the first half.
Manager Thomas Tuchel made several changes at half-time, bringing on Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka. Eze was introduced to spark the midfield but was later shifted to the left wing. Saka, brought on to help England take control and manage his minutes, delivered two dangerous crosses and made two effective defensive tackles.
Further substitutions included Reece James, who initially played in central midfield before moving to his natural right-back position. Djed Spence was introduced late in regular time to counter the threat of Oscar Bobb and provided an attacking outlet with his pace. Spence won a penalty in extra time, but it was overturned by the video assistant referee, and he also had a late shot saved.
The decisive moment came in extra time, following a shot from Morgan Rogers, who came on in the 89th minute. Rogers’ shot was spilled, allowing Jude Bellingham to score his second goal of the match and secure the win for England. Dan Burn was brought on in the 111th minute as England looked to see out the final minutes of the game.
Bellingham’s performance was particularly notable, as he stepped up to score both goals and has been a driving force for England throughout the tournament. His form has elevated him to a new level during this World Cup.
The victory means England will now prepare for their semi-final match.
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Source: bbc.com
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Charlie Bradshaw is the Senior Football Correspondent at News-GB, covering the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side with ten years of reporting experience. He covered Merseyside football before going national. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Liverpool John Moores University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Liverpool, he watches non-league sides and collects old match programmes. “The back page is only ever half the story.”