England manager Thomas Tuchel gave an honest assessment of his team's performance following their 2-1 win over Norway in the FIFA World Cup quarter-final on Saturday, July 11.

A brace from Jude Bellingham (45+2', 93') cancelled out Andreas Schjelderup's opener (36'), sending the Three Lions to the semi-final. However, Tuchel was unimpressed with his boys' general display on the day.

Speaking after the game, the German tactician criticised his team's performance and insisted they were lucky with the result. He said (via The Touchline on X):

Despite enjoying more possession (52% -48%), England struggled for control at various periods in the encounter at the Miami Stadium. Nevertheless, they recorded eight shots on target compared to Norway's four. The Three Lions created three big chances while Norway managed just one. Tuchel’s side also edged the duels, winning 54 to Norway’s 47.

England will next play either Argentina or Switzerland in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final on July 15.

England head coach Thomas Tuchel described midfielder Jude Bellingham as a 'world class' player following his outstanding display in the win over Norway on Saturday. The 23-year-old put up a Man of the Match display, scoring twice to secure a semifinal ticket for the Three Lions.

His first goal off an Anthony Gordon assist saw the Real Madrid star receive the ball inside the box, create space for himself and release a shot into the bottom right corner for 1-1. Bellingham then tapped home a rebound to give his side the lead in the first half of extra time.

Reacting to Bellingham's performance against Norway, Tuchel said (via Madrid Xtra) :

The Real Madrid star also had a standout performance in the Round of 16, scoring a brace in the 3-2 win over Mexico. Overall, he has scored six times and provided an assist in six games so far at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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