England secures semi-final spot
England has advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after a 2-1 victory over Norway in extra time. The match saw Jude Bellingham score both goals for England. This win sets up a semi-final clash against Argentina.
The game, played in Miami, saw England come from behind. Alex Howell, an England reporter, provided assessments of the players’ performances.
Player performances against Norway
Several England players were evaluated for their contributions during the quarter-final match. Jordan Pickford, who became England’s most-capped player in World Cups, received a rating of 5. He was reportedly caught out by Andreas Schjelderup’s cross, leading to Norway’s opening goal.
Ezri Konsa was noted for his dependable performance at right-back, earning a rating of 7. Marc Guehi, despite nursing a hamstring issue, was effective in marshalling Erling Haaland and received a rating of 8. John Stones, with a rating of 7, made a crucial interception but was also caught on the ball in a difficult area.
Nico O’Reilly, a Manchester City player, was given a rating of 7 for his complex role as left-back and an additional option in the left-sided number 10 space. Elliot Anderson, rated 7, started in a more advanced position and initiated the move for England’s first goal before moving to a number six role.
Declan Rice, rated 6, was positioned as England’s deepest midfielder, possibly due to an illness earlier in the week, and was substituted at half-time. Jude Bellingham, with a rating of 9.5, was highlighted for his two goals and his ability to perform in challenging moments throughout the tournament.
Noni Madueke, rated 5, had early opportunities but did not capitalise on them and was substituted at half-time. Anthony Gordon, rated 8, brought energy to the attack and provided the assist for Bellingham’s equaliser. England captain Harry Kane, rated 6, faced a well-organised Norway defence and had a goal disallowed for offside.
Substitutes’ impact
Substitutions were made to influence the game’s outcome. Eberechi Eze, brought on in the 46th minute, received a rating of 5. Bukayo Saka, also introduced at half-time, was rated 7 for his dangerous crosses and defensive tackles.
Reece James, who came on in the 71st minute, was rated 6. Djed Spence, a Tottenham defender, entered the game in the 86th minute and was rated 7. He dealt with the threat of Oscar Bobb and won a penalty in extra time, which was later overturned by the video assistant referee.
Morgan Rogers, an Aston Villa forward, came on in the 89th minute and was rated 7. His shot was reportedly spilled, leading to Bellingham’s second goal in extra time. Dan Burn, a centre-back, was brought on in the 111th minute and received a rating of 6 as England aimed to secure their lead.
A strong semi-final lineup
The 2026 World Cup semi-final field is considered strong, featuring France, Argentina, Spain, and England. These four teams were ranked among the top four entering the tournament, with France at No. 1, Argentina at No. 2, Spain at No. 3, and England at No. 4. This marks the first time in World Cup history that the top four ranked teams have reached the semi-finals.
The match between England and Argentina will be broadcast live.
Read Also
- Bellingham scores twice as England defeat Norway 2-1 to reach World Cup semifinals
- Kansas City: Argentina leads Switzerland in World Cup quarter-final
- England silence Haaland as Norway's World Cup journey ends in quarter-finals
- Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic's Grand Slam future and retirement plans discussed
Source: sports.yahoo.com
