World Cup dreams dashed for last remaining BVB players Ryerson and Kobel | OneFootball

First, Julian Ryerson and his Norwegian teammates battled England for a spot in the semifinals. The Scandinavians, with former BVB player Erling Haaland in the starting lineup as usual, took the lead in the 36th minute through Andreas Schjelderup. Just before halftime, former BVB player Jude Bellingham equalized with a left-footed shot following a solo run, making it 1-1. 

In the second half, Norway conceded a second goal following a foul by Erling Haaland. Shortly afterward, Julian Ryerson was substituted early due to injury. The fullback had put in a spirited performance on the right flank for 60 minutes but had to be replaced by Fredrik Aursnes.

Norway initially managed to force the game into extra time. But in the 93rd minute, Jude Bellingham struck for the second time with a follow-up goal, securing the Three Lions’ spot in the semifinals.

Kobel unable to prevent Switzerland’s defeat

For Gregor Kobel, too, the World Cup adventure came to an end on Saturday night. After another highly intense 120 minutes, the goalkeeper and his Swiss teammates lost 1-3 in extra time to defending champions Argentina.

The Swiss had managed to equalize after falling behind 0–1 to a goal by Dan Ndoye, but were down a man from the 72nd minute onward following a second yellow card for Breel Embolo and still fought their way into extra time.

There, however, the Albiceleste, led by captain Lionel Messi, gained the upper hand and sealed the victory with goals from Julian Alvarez (112') and Lautaro Martinez (120'+1).

Gregor Kobel had no chance to stop any of the three goals and had kept his Swiss teammates in the game for a long time with strong saves.

The semifinal matches between France and Spain (14 July 14, 21:00 CEST) and England and Argentina (15 July, 21:00 CEST) will take place without any further participation from the Black and Yellows.