Bellingham's England equaliser against Norway marred by Spidercam cable controversy at World Cup

Jude Bellingham’s equaliser for England in their World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Norway at the Miami Stadium finished the first half level at 1-1, but the goal was immediately clouded by claims that the ball struck a Spidercam cable before the move developed.

Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland rushed to referee Clement Turpin to protest after conceding, arguing that his goal kick had made contact with a cable above the pitch. The ball subsequently dropped to Elliot Anderson, who exchanged a pass with Anthony Gordon before feeding Bellingham, who drove into the penalty area and finished strongly.

VAR did not intervene and the goal stood. However, former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg argued the incident warranted a review. “VAR can interfere if that contact of the ball on the camera cable is part of a reviewable incident,” Clattenburg said. “An attacking phase of play leading to a goal is part of the VAR reviewable incident. It should have been picked up by the VAR.”

Under FIFA rules, if a ball strikes a Spidercam, “outside interference” can be called, stopping play and restarting with a drop ball. FIFA sources, however, insist the VAR team did not interpret the ball as having hit the Spidercam, with sensors inside the ball detecting no contact.

Despite the controversy, Bellingham drew widespread praise from the television pundits. Gary Neville described him as “an absolute star,” while Ian Wright highlighted the quality of his touch in the build-up. “It’s the touch, the defender is worried about the touch, but that touch there, it’s keeping the ball away to get the shot off,” Wright said.

Roy Keane was equally impressed. “He’s in control of everything. His right foot, finish with his left — I can be critical of Norway’s defenders but it’s a fantastic finish,” Keane added. The goal also moves Bellingham further up the Golden Boot standings.