World Cup 2026: reaction to England’s quarter-final win over Norway and more – live | 2026 World Cup
Important events
There were useful cameos elsewhere though Djed Spence to make an impact on the left back, Morgan Rogers to add much-needed energy, too Dan Burn reminds everyone that even in the modern era of passing and possession it’s best to stick with the big man when you’re defending the lead and enjoy watching him cross.
Barney touches on the puzzling omission of Kobbie Mainoo. The Manchester United midfielder has not featured in England’s campaign so far despite coming off the bench in his side’s first five games and making his debut in the sixth.
Tuchel made a fool of himself to avoid playing him against Norway, instead starting the demoted Declan Rice, replacing him with Eberechi Eze in an advanced role that demolished the entire structure, followed by right-back Reece James as he played whack-a-mole in his own problems.
double quotation mark In those 120 minutes the two midfielders went from Declan Rice and Anderson to Bellingham and Anderson, to Reece James and Anderson, to Morgan Rogers and Anderson. Not Kobbie Mainoo, in particular, who probably follows David Beckham, a lump, a giant lizard and a TV camera cable when they’re looking for a place. Why is Mainoo here? Why isn’t Adam Wharton here? These are questions that require honest answers.
Barney Ronay was in Miami to see the latest installment of the Jude Bellingham force of will tour. Under the praise he deserves, the hero of England who scored two goals is not missing this team with a team that has lost its spark and a coach who does not seem to know his XI.
double quotation mark At times this felt like a typical England show, we are empty men, packed men, waiting for the game to happen, the football a little smoke in that sweet hot air. But they also had Jude Bellingham, who seems to continue to exist as a completely different class of people in this group, except when he plays in the same tournament, which has reached this point and swept all the others in its path.
Background
Jonathan Howcroft
Whether you’re catching your breath after a dramatic double header, or waking up to exciting quarter-final news, stay with us here for all the news and reactions from the epic 2026 World Cup.
Only four teams remain in the draw In England again In Argentina to join France again Spain in semi. For the first time since the FIFA ranking began in 1992, the teams that reached the semi-finals of the World Cup were the top four teams in the world.
England were toiled in the heat of Miami by Norway but not for the first time Jude Bellingham brought where it matters on the big stage.
Argentina also needed more time to battle European opposition; their hero was Julian Alvarezbut they also owe Breel Embolo a debt of gratitude for getting himself out there in Switzerland they had a historic effect on their material.
If you have any comments on the above, or anything else related to the World Cup, get in touch by email – jonathan.howcroft.freelance@theguardian.com. Let’s get into it!
