England are deadlocked at 1-1 with Norway at half-time in their 2026 World Cup quarter-final in Miami, and television pundit Gary Neville has directed pointed criticism at goalkeeper Jordan Pickford following a sensational opening goal from the Scandinavians.

Andreas Schjelderup struck what appeared to be a back-post cross intended for Erling Haaland, but the ball rattled in off the post in stunning fashion — and Neville was unsparing in his assessment of Pickford's response.

"That can't go in the net from there," Neville said. "Jordan Pickford is not going to want to see that again. It is a cross, but he has to save it."

Co-pundits pile on

Ian Wright echoed the sentiment, insisting that Pickford should have done far more to prevent the goal from crossing the line. "You have to put your hand on that. You can't take your hand away. If a ball is coming in your vicinity and you have the opportunity to touch it... you have to," Wright said.

Roy Keane agreed, stating that Pickford ought to be "disappointed" with his own performance — a particularly pointed remark given that this match makes Pickford the most-capped England goalkeeper of all time at a World Cup.

A testing afternoon in Miami heat

The quarter-final, played in 44°C real-feel conditions, has been a closely contested affair between two sides more accustomed to cooler climates. Norway arrived having eliminated five-time world champions Brazil in the round of 16, while England ground out a difficult victory over Mexico at the Azteca.

Norway came close to doubling their lead before the interval, with Alexander Sorloth squandering a two-on-one opportunity through a string of poor decisions. Haaland also threatened twice in the first half, forcing Pickford to collect a loose ball inside the six-yard box and nodding an effort straight at the England stopper.

Harry Kane had blazed a free-kick attempt high over the bar before the 30th minute, and his chip finish late in first-half stoppage time was chalked off for offside.

Bellingham rescues England before the break

It was Jude Bellingham who salvaged England's position, converting a composed finish past the Norwegian goalkeeper in the 46th minute to restore parity heading into half-time. England will need a stronger second-half showing to progress to the semi-finals — and Pickford will be determined to make amends between the posts.