Legendary Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas has weighed in on England’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Norway in the FIFA World Cup quarter-final on July 11 (ET) in Miami. The Three Lions advanced to the semi-finals despite a furor over a camera cable interfering with play just before half-time.
What happened in Miami?
A Norwegian goal kick clipped an overhead camera cable hanging over the pitch. The ball dropped after touching the cable, with Elliot Anderson reacting first. He fed Anthony Gordon, who squared the ball to Jude Bellingham for a 90+2’ equalizer. Andreas Schjelderup had put Norway ahead in the 36th minute. Bellingham then sealed the win in the third minute of extra time, pouncing on a fumble from Nyland to prod home the rebound from Morgan Rogers’ long-range shot.
Why did the goal stand?
FIFA dismissed complaints after the match. A sensor in the ball did not register contact with the cable when airborne, per ESPN. The laws of the game call for a drop-ball restart after interference. Yet officials allowed the play to stand, sparking debate over VAR’s role in modern tournaments.
What does Casillas think?
Casillas posted on X: *“England was thrown a lifeline…”* He called out the missed call in real time. The moment added to England’s path, which included a 4-2 group-stage win over Croatia, a 0-0 draw with Ghana, and a 2-0 group-stage win over Panama. Kane’s brace against Croatia made him England’s all-time top scorer at the World Cup.
What comes next for England?
England face defending champions Argentina in the semi-final. A win would end their 60-year wait for a second World Cup title since 1966. Tuchel’s side has not conceded a goal in open play since the group stage opener against Croatia. Their defense held firm despite the late drama against Norway.