Bellingham Leads England Past Norway into World Cup Semi-Finals
Jude Bellingham scored twice as England came from behind to beat Norway 2-1 in extra time to reach the World Cup semi-finals.
England’s performance in Miami on Saturday highlighted both individual brilliance and tactical challenges. Below is an assessment of how the players performed during the match.
Starting XI
Jordan Pickford: He set a new record as England’s most-capped player in World Cup history. However, he struggled on Norway’s opening goal after failing to deal with an Andreas Schjelderup cross. It was an uncertain display from the goalkeeper. 5
Ezri Konsa: He remained dependable, proving his value as a fixture in this England side. While he was solid defensively, he offered little going forward—though this is expected given he played out of his natural position. He nearly caused trouble for John Stones with one misplaced pass. 7
Marc Guehi: He excelled at containing the dangerous Erling Haaland, an impressive feat given he has been managing a hamstring injury. Guehi stayed reliable throughout, though he saw more of the ball than England preferred as Norway sat deep. 8
John Stones: His ability to read the game proved vital, highlighted by a crucial interception that denied Haaland a clear scoring chance. He was lucky to escape punishment after losing possession in a dangerous area. 7
Nico O’Reilly: His confidence has grown throughout the tournament. The Manchester City player managed a complex role, serving as a left-back while also tucking into a number 10 position when England held possession. He faced pressure from Alexander Sorloth, who nearly scored after pinning him back. 7
Elliot Anderson: Anderson played in an advanced role early on and drove the run that sparked the move for England’s equalizer. He moved into his familiar number six position following the substitution of Declan Rice. 7
Declan Rice: He operated as England’s deepest midfielder, possibly due to a recent illness or a tactical choice to protect the back four from Norway’s long balls. He did not look like his usual self and left the pitch at half-time. 6
Jude Bellingham: He has carried England through difficult patches all tournament and stepped up again by scoring both goals. His current form confirms he has reached a new level at this World Cup, giving the Three Lions a distinct advantage. 9.5
Noni Madueke: He failed to capitalize on a few early chances to beat his marker. After a disappointing first half, he was substituted at the break. 5
Anthony Gordon: He brought consistent energy to the attack in the sweltering Miami heat and constantly looked to push forward. He provided the assist for Bellingham’s equalizer. 8
Harry Kane: The England captain struggled to find space against a disciplined Norway defense. He had a goal disallowed for offside in the first half and spent much of the game dropping deep to find the ball. 6
Substitutes
Eberechi Eze (46mins): He entered the game to add creativity to the midfield, but the attempt to break down Norway’s defense had limited success, and he was eventually moved to the left wing. 5
Bukayo Saka (46 mins): Introduced at half-time, the Arsenal winger provided two dangerous crosses and contributed with two excellent defensive tackles. 7
Reece James (71 mins): He played in central midfield to help England retain possession before shifting to his natural right-back role later in the match. 6
Djed Spence (86 mins): The Tottenham defender handled Oscar Bobb well and provided a counter-attacking threat. He won a penalty in extra time that was subsequently overturned by VAR and saw a late shot saved. 7
Morgan Rogers (89 mins): The Aston Villa forward forced the spill that led to Bellingham’s extra-time winner. He helped England regain control of the game during the closing stages. 7
Dan Burn (111 mins): He came on as a substitute to help defend the lead during the final minutes. 6
