Morgan Rogers helped create England’s winning goal as he and Ezri Konsa reached the World Cup semi-finals with a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway.
Konsa started his sixth successive match of the tournament in Miami. Thomas Tuchel selected the Aston Villa defender at right-back against Erling Haaland’s side.
Norway took the lead through Andreas Schjelderup after 36 minutes. However, Jude Bellingham equalised shortly before half-time to bring England level.
Konsa completed the regulation 90 minutes before Rogers replaced his Villa team-mate late in the second half.
The substitution gave England another attacking option as the quarter-final moved into extra time.
Rogers creates England winner
Rogers played a central role just three minutes into the additional period. His swerving long-range strike forced former Villa goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland into a difficult save.
Nyland could only push the ball into Bellingham’s path, allowing the midfielder to score his second goal of the match.
The contribution continued an encouraging tournament for Rogers, despite most of his knockout-stage opportunities coming from the bench.
Meanwhile, Konsa’s latest start underlined his growing importance to Tuchel. ReadAstonVilla previewed how the defender would face a major challenge against Haaland and Norway.
The Manchester City striker failed to score before leaving the field during extra time. Konsa’s ability to operate at right-back also gave England greater defensive flexibility.
Ollie Watkins remained an unused substitute as England secured their place in the last four.
England will now face Emi Martínez’s Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday. Villa are therefore guaranteed representation in the World Cup final, with Martínez facing Konsa, Rogers and Watkins for a place in Sunday’s showpiece.
