Jude Bellingham scored twice – the second a poacher’s finish in extra time after Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Håskjold Nyland spilled a Morgan Rogers shot – to send England into a World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The 2-1 victory at Miami Stadium on Sunday was anything but polished. Norway had led through Andreas Schjelderup’s cross-cum-shot, and Thomas Tuchel’s side were second best for much of the game. But Bellingham, now on six goals and in contention for the Golden Boot, delivered when it mattered.
After the match, Tuchel’s critical comments appeared to irk Bellingham. Harry Kane stepped in, insisting the manager is “trying to drag” the best out of his players. “He knows his side can continue improving,” the captain said, acknowledging the performance was not up to standard.
“Bellingham's extra-time winner beats Norway; Kane calms row with Tuchel ahead of Argentina semi-final.”
England now face Argentina on Wednesday, live on BBC One at 19:00 BST. Argentina, granted a request to play in blue, will be without Lionel Messi – who suffered a knock – but England have their own concerns. The squad will hope any internal friction is resolved before kick-off.
Meanwhile, FIFA faces a backlash after deferring a one-game ban for US striker Folarin Balogun – sent off against Bosnia – reportedly at the request of US President Donald Trump. UEFA accused FIFA of “crossing a red line” in a strongly-worded statement.