Jude Bellingham has emerged as the defining figure of England's World Cup campaign, scoring twice in consecutive knockout matches to become the first player to achieve that feat since Diego Maradona in 1986. The 23-year-old Real Madrid forward scored a brace in the round of 16 against Mexico and repeated the performance in the quarter-final against Norway on Saturday, propelling England into the semi-finals.
Bellingham's displays have drawn comparisons with some of the greatest players in football history. His ability to deliver on the biggest stages has been a hallmark of his career, and this World Cup has been no exception. The former Borussia Dortmund star has thrived under the pressure of knockout football, showing composure and clinical finishing that belie his age.
England's quarter-final victory over Norway was particularly significant as it pitted Bellingham against his former Dortmund teammate Erling Haaland. Haaland scored seven goals in five matches during the tournament, but it was Bellingham who stole the show with his two goals to send Norway home. After the match, Haaland acknowledged Bellingham's quality, praising his former teammate's performance.
The 2026 World Cup has been a record-breaking edition for goal scorers. Lionel Messi, with 21 career World Cup goals, and Kylian Mbappé, with 20, remain in the tournament, while Harry Kane has moved to 14 goals, placing him sixth on the all-time list. The expansion of the tournament to 48 teams has contributed to higher scoring totals, but Bellingham's achievements stand out even in this context.
Bellingham's journey to this point has not been without challenges. During the tournament, he faced a potential suspension after accumulating yellow cards, but he avoided a ban thanks to advice from his mother, who reminded him of the disciplinary rules. This allowed him to remain available for the crucial matches against Mexico and Norway.
England now face Argentina in the semi-finals, a match that will see Bellingham go head-to-head with Lionel Messi, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time. Messi has described England as a «powerhouse» and acknowledged the threat posed by Bellingham and his teammates. The semi-final promises to be a clash of generations, with the young English star looking to outshine the legendary Argentine.
Off the pitch, Bellingham's performances have captured the public imagination. A moment during the quarter-final, when Victoria Beckham failed to react to one of his goals, became an instant meme on social media, highlighting the widespread attention on England's run. The team's progress has galvanised fans back home, with Bellingham at the centre of the excitement.
Bellingham's rise has been meteoric since his move to Real Madrid in 2023. He has established himself as one of the most complete midfielders in the world, combining technical skill, physical presence, and a knack for scoring crucial goals. His performances for England have mirrored his club form, making him indispensable to manager Gareth Southgate's plans.
The semi-final against Argentina will be a defining moment for Bellingham and England. With Messi seeking to add to his legacy and Bellingham aiming to announce himself on the global stage, the match is set to be a classic. Regardless of the outcome, Bellingham has already cemented his place in World Cup history with his remarkable run of form.
