‘Man of the Match’ — Bellingham equals Messi and Maradona and closes in on Pelé

Jude Bellingham’s brace in England’s victory over Norway saw them through to the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup. It was not merely another goal-scoring contribution. Instead, it turned into a historic night. This placed the English star among the greatest names to have shaped the tournament’s legacy throughout its history.

In the space of a single match, the Real Madrid player managed to equal a record set by Lionel Messi and reclaim an achievement that had not been matched since Diego Maradona. Furthermore, he joined a list in which the only player younger than him is the Brazilian legend Pelé.

Bellingham matches Messi’s record

Bellingham continued to establish himself as one of the standout stars of the 2026 World Cup after being named Man of the Match for the fourth time during the tournament. This achievement equalled the record for the current edition. Previously, Lionel Messi held this record.

This figure reflects the extent of Bellingham’s impact as England’s midfield maestro. His influence is no longer limited to scoring and creating goals. Instead, he has become the most decisive player in big matches. This fact is reflected in his repeated selection as Man of the Match.

A feat that echoes Maradona record

Bellingham’s achievements did not stop there, as he became the first player to score a brace in two consecutive World Cup knockout matches since the Argentinian legend Diego Maradona did so at the 1986 World Cup held in Mexico.

This achievement underlines just how rare the English star’s feat is. The record had stood for four full decades. This is despite generations of the greatest strikers and playmakers in World Cup history coming and going.

Pelé is the only player to have done it before him

Bellingham also made history in terms of age. He became the second-youngest player to score in two consecutive knockout-stage matches in World Cup history. The only player younger was the Brazilian legend Pelé.

This achievement adds a further historic dimension to the 23-year-old’s career. His name is now linked with three of the greatest players football has ever produced: Messi, Maradona and Pelé.

As the tournament draws to a close, Bellingham continues to write an exceptional chapter in his international career. He has led England to the semi-finals. Furthermore, he has proven through his statistics that he is not merely a star of the moment. Instead, he is a player who is steadily carving out a special place for himself amongst the legends of the World Cup.

Featured image via the Canary