​England edged past Norway to reach the World Cup 2026 semi-finals thanks to another brilliant showing from Jude Bellingham. The 2-1 victory after extra time in Miami followed a dramatic 1-1 draw after 90 minutes, with Bellingham’s influence proving decisive once again as the tie went beyond the regular 90 minutes. After Norway had taken the lead through Andreas Schjelderup, England rallied, and Bellingham delivered a controversial equaliser just before the break that swung momentum in the Three Lions’ favour. The game remained tied at 1-1 at the end of normal time, forcing extra-time.
Once the extra period began, Bellingham struck early, firing England into a lead and giving Gareth Southgate’s side the edge they needed. England then defended resolutely to prevent a late comeback from Norway, sealing a hard-fought win that puts them into the World Cup semi-finals. The result sets up a blockbuster clash in the last four, as England prepare to meet a formidable opponent in a high-stakes clash in the United States.
Waiting in the semi-finals will be Argentina, who advanced after a dramatic extra-time victory over Switzerland. The Atlanta venue for the semi-final has been confirmed, with kick-off slated for 8pm BST (3pm ET) on Wednesday 15 July. The pathway to this point has included a sequence of notable results for England, highlighting the team’s growing confidence and cohesion as the tournament progresses.
England’s campaign to date has included a string of high-profile fixtures, with a notable run that has seen them secure results across a range of venues. Their group-stage schedule featured a win against Croatia and a series of draws and victories that built momentum. Notable results along the way included a 4-2 win over Croatia in Arlington, a 0-0 stalemate with Ghana at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, and a 2-0 victory against Panama at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The team continued to perform on the road as the knockout rounds approached, with a 2-1 win against DR Congo in Atlanta and a 3-2 win over Mexico in Mexico City, before sealing the quarter-final win against Norway after extra time.
In the lead-up to the semi-final, England will be eager to maintain the form that has carried them this far and build on their performances at both ends of the pitch. The fixture against Argentina looms large, offering another major challenge and a potential route to the World Cup final, with the possibility of facing either France or Spain in the subsequent stage at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The journey so far has showcased England’s ability to adapt, to respond under pressure, and to deliver when it matters most, with Bellingham once again proving to be a central figure in their campaign.