New evidence from FIFA has definitively shown that Jude Bellingham's equaliser for England against Norway in the World Cup was correctly awarded, ending a bitter row that erupted after the match. The goal, which sparked a dramatic comeback victory, had been contested by Norway who claimed the ball struck an overhead TV camera cable before reaching Elliot Anderson in the build-up.
Norway's Complaints Dismissed by FIFA
Norway head coach Stale Solbakken had insisted after the match that the ball hit the cable, saying 'everybody' saw it. However, FIFA's investigation, including video footage from the spidercam itself, shows no wobble in the camera at the moment the ball was supposedly hitting the cable. A side-on angle obtained by the Daily Mail also confirms a natural flight path.
The balls used at the World Cup are equipped with sensors that detect even the slightest touches. FIFA's statement confirmed: 'The sensor in the Connected Ball showed no peak in the heartbeat of the ball when in the air, and therefore no evidence that the ball touched the overhead wire and changed the movement of the ball.'
Solbakken's Reaction
Despite the evidence, Solbakken had previously stated: 'The ball fell straight down, right in front of the bench, so it did touch it.' However, after FIFA's findings, he acknowledged: 'If there was no sound from the chip, what can I say? He [the referee] can't do anything about it.'
The goal was scored in the 45+2 minute, bringing England level and setting the stage for a second-half comeback. The victory keeps England's World Cup hopes alive, while Norway's tournament now hangs in the balance.
