England Advances to World Cup Semi-Finals
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Just earlier this season, there was a debate in England about whether Jude Bellingham should even be on the World Cup squad.
But honestly, the likelihood of Bellingham being left out is nearly non-existent, unless something drastic happens, like an injury. Anyone questioning his role again? That’s not going to happen.
What a remarkable month it has been for Bellingham as he scored twice, including the winning goal, in England’s 2-1 victory over Norway, propelling them to the World Cup semi-finals.
A week after defeating Mexico, England faced quite the challenge against Erling Haaland and a humid Miami. This match also went into extra time, with the tension nearly palpable again.
Bellingham struck with just three minutes left in extra time. He capitalized on a shot from Morgan Rogers that the goalkeeper, Orjan Nyland, couldn’t handle. England, earlier on, had to hang on tight as Norway ramped up their attacks in the first part of extra time.
Norway seemed to be losing steam. Haaland, who had been a standout in the tournament, was subbed out for Jorgen Strand Larsen during the first half of extra time, but there was no visible change in the game’s flow. As final moments approached, England decided to swap Bellingham for Dan Byrne to solidify their defense.
Ultimately, Norway couldn’t muster up clear opportunities.
Now, England’s next match is against either Argentina or Switzerland in Atlanta, a chance to reach their first final since 1966.
This was a feeling England hadn’t experienced in quite some time. The Three Lions were clearly second-best for at least part of the game, particularly in the opening 25 minutes when they possessed the ball but didn’t make much of it. Yet Bellingham exuded a presence that the team has often missed since their last World Cup win.
Some key players, including right-back Ezri Konsa and winger Noni Madueke, left the field by the end of regulation. Madueke was replaced at halftime by Bukayo Saka. Konsa later transitioned to make room for Jed Spence at left-back, with Reece James and Eberechi Eze playing as well.
Rodgers’ addition seemed to create opportunities, with all substitutes putting in strong performances. Ultimately, however, the spotlight fell on Bellingham, who demanded attention.
Norway had their fair share of missed chances. Alexander Soros had a breakaway but didn’t pass to Haaland. Thorbjorn Hegem saw his goal disallowed for a foul, and David Moller-Wolf’s close shot hit the crossbar.
This was particularly painful for Norway, who had hopes of pulling off an upset. The belief that this year could be significant for England grew even stronger.
Early in the game, the oppressive heat and humidity played a role. During a hydration break, England maintained possession while Norway retreated, but little action unfolded as both teams took their time.
A surprising moment from Andreas Schjelderup ignited the match. The Norwegian winger outmaneuvered Konsa and scored from an acute angle, giving Norway an unexpected 1-0 lead with just his second shot.
Moments later, Saarlos had a promising 2-on-1 opportunity with Haaland on the left but passed up the chance, letting John Stones intervene and deny Norway further momentum.
Norway would come to regret some of their choices before halftime. Elliott Anderson, effectively managing the midfield’s pace, teamed up with Anthony Gordon on the left, providing Bellingham with a chance in stoppage time. He leveled the score with his left foot, while a late first-half kick by Harry Kane was flagged offside.
In the 55th minute, Heggem scored from a corner, seemingly giving Norway a 2-1 lead until it was overturned after a VAR review, due to a foul by Haaland on Anderson. This was a notable moment for a player who had been dominant throughout the tournament.
In the end, Norway is left pondering those “what ifs.” As 60 years have passed since England’s last big win in 1966, they are still striving for another victory.
