England secured a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday, setting up a semi-final clash with reigning champions Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday. Jude Bellingham scored twice, including the winner in extra time, after Norway had taken the lead through Andreas Schjelderup's cross-shot.
Alf-Inge Haaland Claims Norway Were 'Robbed'
Alf-Inge Haaland, father of Norway striker Erling Haaland, claimed his country were 'robbed' after a controversial disallowed goal. Norway had a goal by Torbjorn Heggem ruled out after Erling Haaland pushed over Elliot Anderson at a corner. In a post on X, Haaland senior wrote: 'Saved by the referee. Hope you win the WC now. But feel we got robbed today.' He also referenced Jude Bellingham's winning goal, adding: 'Well done Bellingham and referee.'
Senegal Sack Head Coach Pape Thiaw
Senegal have dismissed head coach Pape Thiaw following their elimination from the World Cup. The decision was announced earlier on Sunday, though no immediate successor was named. Senegal had reached the knockout stage but were eliminated by Spain.
Infantino Mulls Expansion to 64 Teams
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has suggested the World Cup could expand from 48 to 64 teams for the 2030 tournament. In an interview with Swiss media outlet Bluewin, Infantino said: 'That's definitely an issue that will be examined and discussed in the relevant committees after this World Cup.' He added: 'Every nation should be allowed to dream of participating in the World Cup.' The 2026 edition is the first with 48 teams, up from 32 since 1998.
Pickford Focused on 'Getting the Job Done'
Jordan Pickford, who made his 18th World Cup appearance to surpass Peter Shilton's record for England goalkeepers, said: 'First and foremost it is more about the team... To get to another semi-final, we are at that stage where we need to keep going.' He added: 'At this moment in time, everyone who knows me, knows it is about getting the job done and focusing on the next game.'
Tuchel Relishes Semi-Final Challenge
England manager Thomas Tuchel said there is 'nowhere else in the whole wide world' he would rather be than leading England into a semi-final against Argentina. 'I enjoy it a lot but having a knockout match every three, four days is a new level of demand and a new level of emotional roller coaster,' he said.
