England produced a spirited comeback to book their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating a determined Norway 2-1 after extra time on Saturday night, with Jude Bellingham emerging as the hero with a match-winning brace.
The Three Lions showed remarkable resilience to recover from a first-half setback and keep alive their dream of winning a first World Cup title since 1966.
Norway stunned England in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup found the breakthrough, putting the Scandinavian side ahead and leaving Thomas Tuchel’s men chasing the game.
Just when Norway looked set to head into the break with the advantage, Bellingham rose to the occasion. The Real Madrid midfielder struck deep into first-half stoppage time (45+2) to restore parity, giving England renewed belief heading into the second half.
Despite creating several chances after the restart, neither side could find a winner in regulation time, forcing the contest into extra time.
England’s persistence finally paid off three minutes into the additional period when Bellingham struck again in the 93rd minute, completing his brace with a composed finish to turn the game on its head and send the Three Lions into the last four.
The victory highlighted England’s character and determination, overcoming adversity against a resilient Norwegian side that had threatened to cause an upset.
Bellingham’s outstanding performance not only secured England’s passage but also reinforced his status as one of the tournament’s standout performers, with his leadership and decisive finishing proving the difference on the night.
The win sends England into the World Cup semi-finals, where they will face the winner of the quarter-final between Argentina and Switzerland on Wednesday for a place in the final.
With confidence growing and key players stepping up when it matters most, England remain firmly in contention to end their 60-year wait for World Cup glory.
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