England takes an extra-time lead against Norway in the World Cup 2026 quarter-final in Miami. Relive the thrilling match as both teams fight for a semi-final sp
Extra Time Drama Unfolds
The World Cup 2026 quarter-final match between Norway and England extended into extra time after the teams remained level following 90 minutes of play. The tension was palpable in Miami as both sides battled for a spot in the next round.
England initiated the first period of extra time. Early in this period, Jude Bellingham scored, giving England a lead. This goal came after Rogers delivered a shot from outside the area, which Nyland, the Norway goalkeeper, could only parry. Bellingham was quick to react to the rebound, slotting the ball home from close range.
Prior to this, Norway had opened the scoring with what appeared to be a mishit cross from Andreas Schjelderup, which found its way past Jordan Pickford. Bellingham later equalised for England. However, Norway raised concerns about England’s equalising goal, arguing it should have been disallowed due to the ball striking an overhead camera cable during the build-up. Reports from Fox Sports initially indicated the ball hit the wire, the referee missed it, and Norway’s players and manager attempted to draw attention to it, but VAR did not review the incident. However, later reports from FIFA stated that the ball hitting the cable did not occur.
The match saw several moments of contention and near misses. In the 98th minute of extra time, Djed Spence made a run into the box and was brought down by Bobb from behind, resulting in a penalty awarded to England. The referee was called to the screen to review the incident, with the initial decision being checked by VAR.
Key Moments and Substitutions
Throughout the second half, England struggled to maintain their structure, with manager Thomas Tuchel’s half-time substitutions impacting the team’s cohesion. Despite this, England had opportunities to secure a win in regular time, including a cutback from Saka and a moment where Spence nearly blocked a clearance from Nyland.
In the 91st minute, Norway made a change, bringing on Ostigard for Heggem, who had been struggling. Earlier in the match, England also made substitutions, with Saka and Eze replacing Madueke and Rice at the start of the second half. Konsa was later replaced by Rogers in the 89th minute.
Norway equalised in the second half from a corner. After England failed to clear the ball, Sorloth took a shot that Pickford blocked. The rebound fell to Heggem, who scored from close range. This goal came after Erling Haaland reportedly pushed Anderson out of the way, an act described as unnecessary and costly.
The match was marked by intense pressure from both sides. In the 90th minute +1, Nyland dallied over a clearance, allowing Spence to close him down, and the rebound narrowly missed going into the empty net. Moments later, in the 90th minute +3, England pressed energetically, with Kane hassling Odegaard and Rogers dispossessing Heggem, who momentarily went down with cramp.
Controversy and Continued Play
The incident involving the camera cable remained a point of discussion. Norway players were reportedly upset at half-time, believing the ball hitting the cable directly led to England’s goal and that play should have been stopped. However, FIFA later stated that the ball did not hit the cable.
As the game progressed into extra time, the advertising hoardings around the stadium displayed the message, “Play, move, have fun,” a sentiment perhaps relevant for the players as the demanding match continued. Erling Haaland was seen receiving a thigh massage in the dugout during the wait for extra time to begin, indicating the physical toll of the game.
The match continued with both teams seeking to gain an advantage. England looked to exploit gaps in Norway’s defence, while Norway continued to press. If the score remains level after extra time, a penalty shootout will determine the winner of this quarter-final match.
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Source: theguardian.com
