Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane has captained his England side to a second semifinal in three World Cups, but it was not easy. Norway took the lead in the first half after and thought they could take the lead into halftime until Jude Bellingham scored his first of the match. Norway thought they took the lead in the second half, but VAR spotted a foul before the corner kick was taken. Bellingham found another goal just three minutes into extra time and they were able to hold on for the final 30 minutes to book
a spot in the semifinals. Here are our Match Awards:
Losing team jersey swap: Martin Ødegaard
Ødegaard was brilliant as Norway’s captain. He tried to get his team going the full game with dribbles in and around the box, trying to break down England’s staunch defense. He assisted the opening goal and created another chance for a teammate to shoot. He also had a shot on goal that forced Pickford into a save. Although he was not able to will his team into a victory, he put in a shift for the full 120 minutes and did his country proud.
Der Kaiser: John Stones
Some England fans were outspoken about his selection into this World Cup roster, but John Stones had a brilliant match on defense. With the help of his teammates, he kept Erling Haaland practically silent for the full match. With almost 100 touches, Stones completed all but three passes over the full 120 minutes. He also recored eight clearances — six with his head. This was joint most for defensive contributions from both teams over the 120 minutes.
Fußballgott: Elliot Anderson
The midfield pairing of Anderson and Rice was great in the first half but Rice was subbed off at halftime. Despite great efforts by Rice, Eberechi Eze, and Bukayo Saka, Anderson gets the nod due to playing well over the full 120 minutes. He completed 94% of his passes and tracked the ball down nine times to record a recovery. His heat map painted most of the field as he got involved in every aspect of the match.
Der Bomber: Anthony Gordon
Gordon was heavily involved in the attack in his 70 minutes on the pitch. He assisted Bellingham’s first goal after a brilliant run took him to the edge of the box. His ball back to find Bellingham at the top of the box was inch-perfect. Gordan was also not afraid to take on an opponent, winning four dribbles — the most of anyone on the pitch.
Meister of the Match: Jude Bellingham
For the second straight match, Bellingham score two goals for England, making him the youngest player in the history of the World Cup to have a brace in two straight knockout rounds. Bellingham’s first goal leveled the match shortly before halftime. He took Gordon’s pass and had a brilliant step around the defender, shooting barely past two defenders and the keeper. His instincts helped him get the second goal. He made a run into the box after a long-range shot from a teammate bounced off the chest of Norway’s keeper. He was there to pounce and put the winning goal into the back of the net. His sixth goal puts him level with Kane and into the Golden Boot conversation.
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