Jude Bellingham scored twice to send England into the World Cup semi-finals with a 2–1 win over Norway at Miami Stadium – but it was a moment before kick-off and a thunderous late cameo from Dan Burn that truly captured the occasion.
Bellingham, who spent two seasons alongside Norway’s Erling Haaland at Borussia Dortmund between 2020 and 2022, greeted his former teammate in the tunnel before the game. The Real Madrid star wished Haaland luck, then gave him a cheeky pat on the backside, a hug and a smile. The exchange won hearts online, with one fan writing: “I love their relationship.” Another added: “They have a brilliant friendship – it’s great to see!”
“Bellingham's double beats Norway 2-1, sets up semi-final with Argentina, as pre-match Haaland friendship and Burn's late heroics go viral.”
Haaland had opened the scoring in the first half, but Bellingham’s superb double in extra time completed the comeback. England will now face Argentina in the semi-finals on Wednesday, with kick-off at 8pm BST.
While Bellingham stole the headlines, Newcastle defender Dan Burn made sure the victory stayed safe. Burn came on in the 111th minute and, with fewer than ten seconds of stoppage time remaining, powered away one final header before standing over his beaten opponent. The old-school defending immediately went viral, with one fan posting: “Dan Burn with the most English challenge ever. Let ’em know and then stand over ’em so they’re aware.” Another simply wrote: “Words can’t describe my love for Dan Burn.”
Burn’s World Cup stats from his late cameos – nine clearances, two blocks and two completed passes in 24 minutes played – underline his impact. One supporter summed it up: “24 – Dan Burn in his World Cup cameo: 9 clearances. 2 blocks. 2 completed passes. Bosh.”
England face Lionel Messi’s Argentina in what promises to be a grudge match semi-final, with the Three Lions hoping to keep the dream of football coming home alive.