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Erling Haaland’s father has held the referee responsible for Norway’s elimination from the World Cup following their 2-1 extra-time defeat to England.

England advanced to the semi-finals after Jude Bellingham scored twice — first levelling the score just before half-time to cancel out Andreas Schjelderup’s opener, and then netting the decisive goal in the 93rd minute by converting a rebound.

The victory, however, did not come without controversy. Questions were raised about the legitimacy of England’s equaliser and the disallowed second goal for Norway, which could have changed the outcome in normal time had it been allowed to stand.

Former Manchester City midfielder Alfie Haaland, while acknowledging Bellingham’s outstanding display, expressed his displeasure with referee Clement Turpin. Taking to X, he wrote: “Well done Bellingham and referee.”

In the lead-up to England’s equaliser, Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland’s goal kick appeared to make contact with a cable suspended above the Miami Stadium. The ball then dropped to Elliot Anderson, who initiated the move that led to England’s goal.

According to the rules, the goal should have been disallowed due to external interference, but VAR did not intervene. FIFA later defended the decision, insisting that no error had occurred. The governing body cited its “snicko” technology, which, it said, showed “no evidence the ball touched the overhead wire.”

Norway’s frustration deepened after half-time. Stale Solbakken’s men believed they had reclaimed the lead when Torbjorn Heggem scored from a corner, only for VAR to review the play.

Officials concluded that Erling Haaland had fouled Elliot Anderson by pushing him to the ground. After Turpin reviewed the footage on the pitchside monitor, the goal was overturned.

England also experienced contentious moments with VAR throughout the match. Harry Kane’s appeals for a foul in the build-up to Norway’s opener were dismissed, and later in extra-time, England saw a penalty decision reversed.

After the match, Norway coach Stale Solbakken expressed immense pride in his team and chose not to dwell on officiating decisions. “There are many situations today. And, well, maybe we have been looking at many of them in the World Cup, so these things happen. We just want to wish England the best of luck,” he said.