The latest
England and Argentina survived quarterfinal scares to complete the FIFA World Cup semifinal lineup after both recovered from first-half deficits to secure 2-1 extra-time victories. Jude Bellingham’s second consecutive knockout brace lifted England past Norway in Miami, while Julián Álvarez struck the winner as Argentina ended Switzerland’s resistance to book a meeting with England in Atlanta.
Details
- England comeback: Andreas Schjelderup gave Norway the lead before Bellingham equalised in first-half stoppage time and scored again in extra time after Ørjan Nyland spilled Morgan Rogers’ long-range effort.
- Argentina advance: Switzerland pushed the defending champions into extra time before Álvarez scored the decisive goal, sending Argentina into another World Cup semifinal.
- Cable dispute: Norway argued Nyland’s goal kick before England’s equaliser struck an overhead cable, but FIFA said connected-ball technology detected no contact.
- Norway threaten: Alexander Sørloth missed an opportunity to square for Erling Haaland during a two-on-one break, while Kristoffer Ajer later struck the crossbar as Norway came close to a major upset.
- Tuchel critical: England coach Thomas Tuchel praised Bellingham as “world class” but said his side made tactical mistakes and lacked quality despite progressing.
- Historic semifinal: England will face Argentina after both survived extra time, while the results also marked the first World Cup semifinal lineup featuring FIFA’s top four ranked nations since the rankings were introduced in 1992.
What to watch
England face defending champions Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday, while the remaining semifinal pits the tournament’s other two top-ranked sides against each other. Tuchel will look for a sharper performance after admitting England were below their best despite advancing.
