England's World Cup campaign faces a new roadblock in Erling Haaland's Norway, but according to an EA Sports FC 26 simulation, the Three Lions emerged victorious with a 3-1 win in the quarter final. Jude Bellingham scored twice, with Anthony Gordon adding another, while Martin Odegaard equalised for Norway in the first half.
Simulated England lineup
Due to suspensions and injuries, England manager Thomas Tuchel fielded a depleted side. Jarrell Quansah's red card against Mexico meant he was suspended, and Jordan Henderson's celebration injury ruled him out for the tournament. Marc Guehi and Declan Rice were doubtful but started. The simulated starting XI was: Jordan Pickford; Djed Spence, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Nico O'Reilly; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham; Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, Anthony Gordon.
Match simulation
England almost scored early when Elliot Anderson fired over from 12 yards. The deadlock was broken on 30 minutes when Jude Bellingham scored from 16 yards. However, Martin Odegaard equalised just before half-time with a powerful drive. In the second half, Jordan Pickford made a crucial save to deny Haaland. Anthony Gordon put England ahead on 64 minutes, and Bellingham sealed the win in injury time. Haaland hit the crossbar but failed to score.
Result and implications
The simulated result was Norway 1-3 England. Neither Harry Kane nor Erling Haaland scored, with Bellingham emerging as the star. The win would set up a semi-final for England, who were denied by France in 2022. According to the simulation, Bellingham's double and Gordon's goal proved decisive in a match dominated by midfield quality rather than the expected striker duel.
