Bellingham scores twice to lift England past Haaland and Norway 2-1
Bellingham scored twice on Saturday — an equaliser in the first half and the go-ahead goal in the third minute of extra time — to lift England past Norway 2-1 and into the World Cup semi-finals for th
Bellingham scored twice on Saturday — an equaliser in the first half and the go-ahead goal in the third minute of extra time — to lift England past No
Read Full Story at France 24 →Why This Matters
England’s victory over Norway, powered by Jude Bellingham’s clutch goals, signals a resurgence in their tournament pedigree just when skepticism about their midfield creativity peaked. The win not only secures a World Cup semifinal berth but also reaffirms England’s ability to navigate high-pressure moments—a trait often questioned in past tournaments.
Background Context
Norway’s defensive resilience under John Møller gave them an early lead, exposing England’s vulnerability to set-piece disruptions—a recurring theme in their recent campaigns. Bellingham’s late heroics contrast sharply with England’s historical struggles in extra time, where they’ve often faltered in knockout stages across major tournaments.
What Happens Next
The semifinal draw will test England’s tactical flexibility against either France or Argentina, both sides with contrasting styles that could expose fresh weaknesses. If Bellingham continues this form, it may silence critics who’ve dismissed England’s midfield as one-dimensional, but the real test lies in sustaining this intensity over multiple matches.
Bigger Picture
This result underscores a broader shift in England’s tournament mentality, where young stars like Bellingham and Foden are stepping into leadership roles without the weight of past failures. It also highlights how set-piece proficiency—a hallmark of modern elite sides—has become England’s most reliable path to goal, compensating for their struggles to break down low blocks.
