Jude Bellingham scored twice to carry England into the World Cup semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Norway in Miami. The Real Madrid midfielder was the standout performer, earning an 8/10 rating, as the Three Lions survived the heat to keep their tournament hopes alive.
Match Overview
Norway took a deserved lead in the first half, exposing England's defensive frailties. However, Bellingham produced two moments of magic to turn the game around, scoring the equaliser and then the winner in extra time. The victory sets up a semi-final clash as England aim to bring football home.
Goalkeeper and Defence
Jordan Pickford (5/10) was uncharacteristically shaky after Norway's opener and struggled to regain composure, though he improved in the second half and extra time. Nico O'Reilly (6/10) dealt well with Oscar Bobb but was substituted for Djed Spence. Marc Guehi (5/10) made a crucial block late in extra time but failed to stand out. John Stones (5/10) had a calamitous moment in the first half but steadied later. Ezri Konsa (6/10) was a bright spark, playing out of position and running himself into the ground before being subbed.
Midfield and Attack
Declan Rice (6/10) played 45 minutes despite illness and did little wrong. Elliot Anderson (7/10) was the unsung hero, keeping possession and seeing a Norwegian goal disallowed after he was fouled by Erling Haaland. Anthony Gordon (6/10) provided an assist for Bellingham but failed to consistently threaten. Jude Bellingham (8/10) was the man of the moment, scoring twice and looking the only dangerous forward. Harry Kane (6/10) struggled to influence the game, dropping deeper. Noni Madueke (5/10) was subbed at half-time after a limited impact.
Substitutes
Eberechi Eze (6/10) came on to add attacking impetus. Bukayo Saka (6/10) was quiet but had a moment of magic late on. Reece James (6/10) offered something different and dealt well with Antonio Nusa. Djed Spence (7/10) nearly scored an own goal and was unlucky not to win a penalty after VAR review. Morgan Rogers (6/10) made good runs. Dan Burn (N/A) was introduced as Tuchel moved to a back five.
