England 2–1 Norway | FIFA World Cup 2026 Quater Final Match Highlights

Jude Bellingham, the Real Madrid superstar, etched his name into English football folklore with two goals, including a 93rd-minute equalizer and the decisive strike in the 117th minute that sent the Three Lions into the semi-finals.

First Half: Norway Strike First

The match began as a tactical chess match, with both sides feeling each other out in the opening exchanges. Norway, inspired by their talismanic striker Erling Haaland, looked dangerous on the counter-attack, while England controlled possession with 53% of the ball in the first period.

The deadlock was broken in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup fired Norway into the lead with a clinical finish that sent the Norwegian supporters into raptures. The Benfica winger capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot past England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, giving the Scandinavians a deserved advantage.

England, however, refused to buckle. Deep into first-half stoppage time with the board showing four additional minutes Jude Bellingham rose highest to meet a pinpoint cross, powering his header past the Norwegian keeper to level the scores at 1-1. The goal came at a crucial moment, deflating Norway's momentum and sending the teams into the break on level terms.

Second Half: VAR Controversy and Missed Chances

The second half was a cagey affair, with both teams aware that a single moment could decide their World Cup fate. Norway thought they had regained the lead in the 57th minute when T. Heggem found the back of the net, but the goal was swiftly ruled out by VAR for an infringement in the build-up a decision that left the Norwegian bench incandescent with rage.

England made attacking changes, introducing Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze at half-time, but it was Norway who continued to create the better chances. Haaland, uncharacteristically quiet throughout, was replaced in extra-time by J. Strand Larsen after 106 minutes as the Norwegian manager sought fresh legs.

The drama intensified in the 102nd minute when VAR intervened once more, this time overturning a penalty awarded to Norway after Oscar Bobb was adjudged to have been fouled. The decision sparked furious protests from the Norwegian players, but the referee stood by the VAR recommendation.