Bellingham double ends Norway's fairytale as England reach WC semi-finals

Jude Bellingham once again proved why he is regarded as one of football's brightest stars, scoring twice as England fought back to beat Norway 2-1 after extra time and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals.

The victory in Miami set up a blockbuster last-four meeting with Argentina, while bringing an emotional end to Norway's remarkable campaign, which had already captured global attention after eliminating Brazil in the previous round.

Norway stunned England in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup unleashed a magnificent strike from outside the area to give the Scandinavian side a deserved lead. The goal lifted Norwegian confidence, while England struggled to find their usual rhythm against a disciplined defence.

But just before half-time, England's talisman delivered.

Bellingham danced past two defenders before calmly finishing beyond the Norwegian goalkeeper in first-half stoppage time, restoring parity and shifting the momentum firmly towards Gareth Southgate's side.

The second half developed into a tense tactical battle.

England dominated possession but found Norway difficult to break down, while Erling Haaland continued to threaten whenever his team launched quick counter-attacks. Norway thought they had regained the lead midway through the half, only for VAR to disallow the goal after determining Haaland had committed a foul during the build-up.

With neither side able to find a winner in normal time, the contest moved into extra time.

The decisive moment arrived in the 105th minute.

A shot was spilled by Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, and Bellingham reacted quickest to fire home from close range, completing his brace and sending England into the semi-finals. It was another match-winning performance from the midfielder, who has become England's driving force throughout the tournament.

Norway refused to surrender and continued to search for an equaliser, but England defended resolutely during the closing stages. Haaland, who had entered the match in outstanding scoring form, was effectively contained and eventually substituted during extra time after a tireless performance.

For England, the victory was as much about character as quality. After falling behind, they remained patient, gradually took control of the midfield and relied on Bellingham's brilliance when it mattered most.

Norway leave the tournament with enormous credit. Reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in nearly three decades and defeating Brazil along the way has confirmed their return among football's rising powers.

England, however, continue their pursuit of a first World Cup title since 1966-and with Bellingham in this kind of form, belief continues to grow.