Uri Geller, the self-proclaimed psychic known for bending spoons, has asserted that he was responsible for the unusual ball movement that resulted in England's controversial equaliser during their World Cup quarter-final against Norway. Geller, who claims to have been using his abilities to support the Three Lions since Euro 96, stated that he made the ball drop from the sky directly to an England player, leading to the goal.
Controversy Over the Goal
The goal, scored by Jude Bellingham, was disputed by Norway, who argued that the ball had hit a wire connected to the spidercam system above the Miami Stadium pitch. According to Norway, this should have resulted in the goal being disallowed. However, FIFA confirmed that sensors in the ball did not detect any contact with the wire, allowing the goal to stand. England went on to win the match 2-1 after extra time.
Uri Geller's Claim
Speaking from his home in Israel, Geller took credit for what the Norwegian manager described as a pass "straight from heaven." In an interview with the Daily Star, Geller said: "I have to be very careful because I don't want England to be hit by some illegal phenomenon of moving the ball. But they can't actually do anything at FIFA because they cannot prove it. If they prove it, it means that everybody around the world will have to accept that I have supernatural powers. Of course I did it. Come on, are you kidding me?"
Geller added: "I was awake all night here in Israel. What else can I tell you? I knew that England had to win and I used all my supernatural powers. I also posted about this before the match. The ball has sensors and sensors cannot pick up paranormal powers. It's amazing, but it worked again."
History of Claims
Geller has a history of claiming to influence football matches. He asserted that he helped England during Euro 96 by using his mind to move the ball on the penalty spot, causing Scotland to miss. His museum in Israel features balls signed by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as a shirt from Diego Maradona. Geller also claimed to have assisted England's men's team in defeating Germany at Euro 2020 by asking fans to touch his handprint and visualize the Three Lions scoring. Additionally, he says he has used his powers to help players like David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, and Harry Kane recover from injuries before major tournaments.
