England Edge Norway 2-1 After Extra Time to Reach World Cup Semi-finals

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England Edge Norway 2-1 After Extra Time to Reach World Cup Semi-finals

By Okiki Oluwasegun

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England booked their place in the World Cup semi-finals after edging Norway 2-1 in a dramatic quarter-final that was settled in extra time.

Norway struck first in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup found the back of the net after being set up by captain Martin Ødegaard.

The lead lasted only until first-half stoppage time, as Jude Bellingham produced a composed finish from Anthony Gordon’s assist to restore parity for England before the break.

Both sides created chances in the second half, but neither could find a decisive goal, forcing the contest into extra time.

England eventually made their pressure count in the 93rd minute of extra time when Bellingham scored his second goal of the match to complete the comeback.

Norway thought they had regained hope when Torbjørn Heggem found the net, but the effort was ruled out following a VAR review.

England were also awarded no penalty after another VAR check involving Djed Spence, ensuring the score remained unchanged.

The match was evenly contested, with England enjoying 53 percent possession and completing 569 of their 628 passes at an impressive 90 percent accuracy.

Thomas Tuchel’s side also registered 14 shots compared to Norway’s 13, while both goalkeepers were called into action on several occasions.

Tactical substitutions from both managers added fresh energy, but it was Bellingham’s outstanding display that ultimately separated the two teams.

The victory sends England into the World Cup semi-finals, keeping their hopes of lifting the trophy alive, while Norway exit the tournament after producing a spirited and highly competitive performance.

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Originally published on www.thenigerianvoice.com


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