Bellingham Stuns Haaland! England Win 2-1 in Extra Time to Reach World Cup Semis

Jude Bellingham produced another unforgettable performance on the grandest stage, scoring twice as England defeated Norway 2-1 after extra time to book a place in the FIFA World Cup semifinals for the first time since 2018.

The Real Madrid midfielder struck an equaliser late in the first half and then delivered the decisive blow in the third minute of extra time , sending England supporters into wild celebrations. As the final whistle sounded, fans serenaded the 23-year-old with the Beatles classic "Hey Jude," a fitting tribute to the man who carried the Three Lions through a tense quarterfinal encounter.

Norway had stunned England in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup fired a shot that clipped the post before finding the net. Despite dominating possession, England suddenly found themselves chasing the game.

Bellingham responded with composure and authority, arriving in the box to finish from close range and restore parity before halftime. The midfielder then completed the comeback in extra time, pouncing on another opportunity to beat goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland and put England ahead for the first time.

A major turning point arrived midway through the second half when Torbjørn Heggem thought he had restored Norway's lead. However, following a video review, the goal was ruled out because of a foul by Erling Haaland in the penalty area.

England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford also played a crucial role, denying Haaland with a superb close-range save. The Manchester City striker, who had been one of the tournament's most prolific scorers, was kept off the scoresheet for the first time in this World Cup and was eventually substituted in extra time after battling fatigue and a leg injury.

While England advanced, coach Thomas Tuchel admitted he was not entirely satisfied with his team's display, saying the side could play faster and be more clinical. Bellingham, however, praised his teammates for overcoming adversity in difficult conditions, with temperatures soaring above 33°C.

The victory keeps England's dream of a second World Cup title alive. The Three Lions now stand just one win away from another appearance in the final as they prepare to face either Argentina or Switzerland in the semifinals.