Jude Bellingham just did what Jude Bellingham does. During England’s 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal against Norway on July 11, the Real Madrid midfielder picked up the ball, turned away from two Norwegian defenders like they were standing in wet concrete, and earned a free kick. It was the kind of moment that makes highlight reels, sells jerseys, and, increasingly, makes crypto executives reach for their checkbooks.
Bellingham, who entered the match with four goals and one assist in the tournament, has been arguably the most impactful midfielder in this World Cup cycle. His performance against Norway at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami was another chapter in what’s becoming a generational tournament run.
Bellingham’s tournament so far
Norway eliminated Brazil to reach the quarterfinals, setting up a marquee clash between Bellingham and Erling Haaland, two of football’s biggest box-office names.
In the round of 16 on July 6, Bellingham scored twice in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico. Two goals in a do-or-die World Cup match, at age 23, wearing an England shirt.
