Bellingham's heroics sends England roaring into the world Cup semi final

England booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after a dramatic 2–1 extra-time victory over Norway in a pulsating quarter-final at Miami Gardens, with Jude Bellingham producing a match-winning performance that will be remembered for.

Norway stunned the Three Lions by taking the lead through Andreas Schjelderup, whose first-half effort gave the Scandinavian side a deserved advantage after an energetic opening period. England struggled to impose themselves early on as Norway pressed aggressively and looked dangerous on the counterattack. �

When England needed inspiration, Jude Bellingham delivered. The Real Madrid midfielder produced a superb individual effort to level the score before half-time, lifting the spirits of his teammates and shifting the momentum in England's favour. Despite relentless pressure from Norway in the second half, the match remained deadlocked, forcing an additional 30 minutes of extra time. �

Just three minutes into extra time, Bellingham struck again. After Norwegian goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland spilled an effort from Morgan Rogers, the 23-year-old reacted quickest to fire home the rebound, completing his brace and sealing England's place in the last four. The two-goal hero took his tournament tally to six goals, underlining his status as one of the standout performers of the World Cup. �

Although Harry Kane did not get on the scoresheet, the England captain played a crucial leadership role throughout the contest. His intelligent movement, hold-up play and relentless pressing helped stretch Norway's defence, while his experience inspired the Three Lions during the tense moments of extra time. Kane also remained among the tournament's leading scorers with six goals entering the semi-finals.

England's defence also deserves praise for containing Erling Haaland, who was kept off the scoresheet despite Norway's determined display. Haaland even had a goal ruled out, as England's disciplined backline and tactical adjustments under manager Thomas Tuchel ultimately proved decisive. �

The victory sends England into a mouthwatering World Cup semi-final against Argentina, with the Three Lions now just one win away from reaching the biggest match in international football. Buoyed by Bellingham's heroics and Kane's leadership, England will head into the clash full of belief as they continue their quest for a second World Cup title. �