Jude Bellingham has cemented his status as England's standout performer at FIFA World Cup 2026, scoring twice in back-to-back knockout victories and topping the squad's statistical charts across a wide range of attacking and off-ball metrics ahead of the semi-final against Argentina.

The Real Madrid midfielder scored two goals against Norway in England's 2-1 win — replicating exactly what he had done in the previous round against Mexico — making him the second-youngest player in history to score twice in consecutive World Cup knockout matches, behind only Pelé.

Bellingham also becomes the youngest European to appear at four men's major tournaments, a milestone that sits alongside his growing collection of records at just 21 years old.

Leading every major attacking category

In addition to drawing level with Harry Kane as England's joint-top scorer at the tournament, Bellingham leads the entire England squad in goals, goal involvements, big chances created, and successful take-ons. His influence extends well beyond the moments he touches the ball — he also tops the charts for total available offers for passes, sprints, runs into the attacking third, and runs in behind.

The numbers paint the picture of a player who reshapes a game whether or not the ball comes to him, pressing, moving, and pulling defences apart with constant forward runs.

Golden Boot race heats up

By eliminating Norway, Bellingham simultaneously ended Erling Haaland's tournament — removing a major rival in the race for the Golden Boot. Bellingham and Kane now sit two goals behind both Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi, who remain alive in the competition.

Opta projects England as favourites to reach the final, and with Bellingham drawing level with Alan Shearer among England's major-tournament all-time greats, the question now is whether he can go one further — and deliver the result England have waited 60 years for.