Bellingham's brace sends England to World Cup semifinals

Jude Bellingham's stellar performance, including a crucial brace, propelled England into the 2026 World Cup semifinals, shattering Norway's dreams. The Real Madrid midfielder's two goals, one a dramatic equalizer from a bizarre deflection off a camera cable and the second a decisive strike in extra time, secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory.

Bellingham, visibly emotional after the match, spoke of his team's "character and perseverance." He highlighted their ability to find a way to win even when facing adversity. "Whether in 90 or 120 minutes, we give everything. We achieved it, I am very proud," he told official television.

The match itself was a dramatic affair, with Norway squandering chances and England facing their own struggles. A moment of sheer luck, dubbed "The Cable Goal," saw a Norwegian goalkeeper's clearance rebound off an aerial camera cable, falling kindly for Bellingham to equalize just before halftime. Norway also had a goal disallowed by VAR and hit the woodwork.

With this performance, Bellingham not only advances England but also stakes his claim in the Golden Boot race, etching his name in football history with his early-career achievements, reminiscent of Pelé's precocism.

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Character, perseverance... Even when things weren't going well, we found a way to win... Whether in 90 or 120 minutes, we give everything. We achieved it, I am very proud.