In a nailbiter, England moves on to the World Cup semifinals, defeating Norway 2-1

England defeated Norway 2-1 in a thrilling extra-time quarterfinal match at the World Cup. This victory keeps England's hopes alive for a second tournament title.

A Tough Match in the Miami Heat

The game was played in Miami Gardens, Florida, on a hot and humid July afternoon. Temperatures reached 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with a dangerous heat index of 108 degrees. This intense heat affected both teams.

In the first half, both teams had chances, but the heat slowed down their sprints and passes. England controlled the ball for most of the half. Norway's star player, Erling Haaland, had a header in the 35th minute. The excitement grew when Andreas Schjelderup then scored with a powerful left-footed shot, giving Norway a 1-0 lead. This was the fifth time Norway had scored first in this World Cup.

The crowd at Hard Rock Stadium cheered for England. Just before halftime, Jude Bellingham scored, tying the game at 1-1. Bellingham had also been a key player in England's win against Mexico in the round of 32.

Extra Time Decides the Winner

Norway thought they had scored again in the second half. After a corner kick, Torbjørn Heggem shot the ball into the goal. However, a video review showed that Haaland had pushed an English player before the corner kick, so the goal was disallowed.

The score remained 1-1 at the end of regular time, leading to 30 minutes of extra play in the continuing heat. Jude Bellingham quickly put England ahead. Norway's goalkeeper saved a long shot, but the ball bounced off him. Bellingham rushed in and scored, making it his sixth goal of the tournament.

This was the first time England and Norway had met in a World Cup. It was also Norway's furthest advance in the tournament. England, who last won the World Cup in 1966, will play the winner of the Argentina/Switzerland match in the semifinal on Wednesday in Atlanta.

Deep Dive & References

• blistering left-footed strike - X, 2026
• his sixth goal - X, 2026