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Sunday, July 12, 2026

Bellingham’s brace powers England past Norway into World Cup semi-finals

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Jude Bellingham scored twice as England fought back from a goal down to defeat Norway 2-1 after extra time, securing a place in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Real Madrid midfielder produced a match-winning performance, cancelling out Norway’s first-half opener before netting the decisive goal in extra time to send Thomas Tuchel‘s side into the last four.

After a cautious opening at Miami Stadium, Norway took control of the contest. Erling Haaland threatened first with a powerful header that Jordan Pickford comfortably saved before Andreas Schjelderup broke the deadlock in the 36th minute, curling a cross-shot in off the inside of the far post to hand the Norwegians a deserved lead.

England absorbed sustained Norwegian pressure before finding an equaliser deep into first-half stoppage time. Bellingham surged forward from midfield before calmly finishing past goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland to restore parity.

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Harry Kane thought he had put England ahead moments later, but his effort was ruled out for offside.

Norway appeared to regain the advantage just before the hour mark when Torbjørn Heggem found the net from a corner. However, a VAR review disallowed the goal after Haaland was judged to have fouled Elliot Anderson in the build-up.

The Scandinavian side continued to threaten, with Kristoffer Ajer striking the crossbar, while England nearly snatched victory in normal time when Djed Spence closed down Nyland following a misplaced clearance.

With the tie heading towards penalties, Bellingham proved the difference in extra time. The 23-year-old reacted quickest after Nyland spilled a fierce effort from substitute Morgan Rogers, bundling home from close range to complete his brace and end Norway’s impressive World Cup campaign.

England will now face either defending champions Argentina or surprise package Switzerland in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals at Atlanta Stadium on July 15.

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