England‑Norway World Cup 2026: VAR Chaos and the ‘Cable of God’

Goalfront drama and the ‘Cable of God’

Norway surged ahead early as Andreas Schjelderup slotted home from close range in the first half. Moments later, England restored parity when Jude Bellingham struck a powerful finish that seemed to follow an unexpected deflection. TV replays captured the ball grazing an overhead camera cable before dropping into the path of Elliot Anderson, prompting Norwegian officials to label the episode the “Cable of God.” Assistant coach Kent Bergersen later told TV 2 that the ball’s contact with the wire altered its trajectory, a claim the German referee did not act upon.

VAR decisions dominate the night

Eleven minutes after the equalizer, Norway appeared to double their lead when Torbjørn Heggem converted a corner, only for VAR to intervene and reverse the goal after Erling Haaland delivered a minor shove on Anderson. Earlier in the half, England’s Harry Kane had a goal disallowed for offside, and a Djed Spence penalty was also waved off after video review suggested no foul in the box. FIFA defended the no‑call on the cable incident by citing ball‑sensor data that showed no measurable impact when the ball was airborne. Manager Thomas Tuchel admitted his side benefited from fortunate moments, noting that “you need moments where you’re lucky.”

What it means for Norway’s hopes

Despite the drama, Norway failed to convert any further chances in a 120‑plus minute contest, leaving them without a second legitimate goal. Haaland, usually a towering presence, managed only two shots—one on target—and seemed largely out of sync with his usual stride. The result leaves the Vikings positioned for future growth, but the night’s contentious episodes will likely fuel online speculation for weeks to come. Their next effort to break into the knockout stages will require fewerVAR headaches and more clinical finishing.

• Key events: Schjelderup opener, Bellingham equalizer after cable graze, Haaland handball disallow, Heggem goal reversal.
• Official statements: Kent Bergersen’s cable claim, FIFA sensor report, Tuchel’s admission of luck.
• Statistical notes: Haaland’s lowest shot count of the tournament, Norway’s missed opportunities in extra time.