Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Elliot Anderson delivered a tireless midfield performance as England defeated Norway after extra time in Miami to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final. The Manchester City midfielder covered 14.8km, more than any England player, before Wednesday’s match against Argentina.
The 23-year-old battled through cramp in the humid conditions while Thomas Tuchel repeatedly changed England’s midfield structure. Harry Kane covered the second-highest distance for England, finishing a few hundred metres behind Elliot Anderson.
England’s victory came as the other half of the draw prepared for the France vs Spain World Cup semi-final carrying a Euro 2024 revenge edge.
Elliot Anderson leads England midfield
“It was so tough. So tough,” Elliot Anderson said. “I was cramping up a few times [in extra time]. But the fighting spirit the lads have is amazing to be part of. The fans should be proud of the amount of fight and determination we showed.”
Elliot Anderson operated in at least four roles after Declan Rice left the match at half-time because of injury and illness. Despite those changes, Elliot Anderson completed 87 passes with a 94 per cent success rate.
The former Newcastle United midfielder also helped create England’s equaliser after the ball appeared to strike an overhead television cable from a Norway goal-kick. Elliot Anderson advanced down the left and combined with Anthony Gordon to set up Jude Bellingham.
Morgan Rogers offers another option
Morgan Rogers later joined Elliot Anderson in a deeper midfield position as Thomas Tuchel searched for the right balance. The Aston Villa forward then produced the shot that led to Jude Bellingham’s extra-time winner.
“We played with Morgan Rogers in the eight and defensively as a double six,” Thomas Tuchel said. “He’s one of my key players. I’m so, so happy about his performance.”
Declan Rice is expected to return against Argentina, although doubts remain over his back problem and recent illness. Match details are available through FIFA’s official World Cup coverage.