Ibrahimovic Takes Aim at Madueke as England Edge Past Norway to Reach World Cup Last Four

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has wasted little time delivering a cutting critique of Noni Madueke following England's passage into the World Cup semi-finals, with the legendary striker particularly unimpressed by the Arsenal winger's contribution against Norway.

The Three Lions secured a 2-1 quarter-final triumph, though they laboured at times to overcome their Scandinavian opponents. Jude Bellingham proved the standout performer, bagging both goals to carry his teammates through a somewhat unconvincing display.

Madueke, drafted into the starting lineup as a replacement for Bukayo Saka, found himself struggling throughout his spell on the pitch. His struggles were evident enough that he was withdrawn at the interval, replaced by Thomas Tuchel at half-time.

Speaking to Fox Sports, Ibrahimovic pulled no punches in his assessment. "I think they're playing with one player less so far Madueke has been on the pitch," the Swede declared. "Every time he gets the ball he makes the wrong decision, and he's walking on the pitch. If I'm Tuchel I change him because he's done nothing this first 45."

The former AC Milan striker continued his barrage, suggesting the hydration break provided no respite from the winger's difficulties. "Even in the hydration break didn't help him. He's played but he's not started every game, they started with one guy less."

Ibrahimovic even managed to work in a quip about an officiating decision, remarking: "If it touched the cable the cable had a better performance than Madueke, for sure."

Declan Rice also endured a testing evening, clearly hampered by illness and/or injury before his own half-time removal. However, Thierry Henry has stepped in to defend Tuchel's selection decisions, insisting the manager's tactical adjustments spoke volumes about his satisfaction levels.

"He was talking about the technical aspect of the game," Henry explained. "I think he wasn't happy with Madueke, he wasn't happy with the speed, he wasn't happy about it, that's why he changed stuff straight away. You don't even need to ask that question—if he's changing stuff it's because he's not happy with what's on the field."

The Arsenal legend also pushed back against suggestions regarding mentality questions, emphasising the quality of Tuchel's work. "What you cannot doubt about this team is the mentality they have," Henry added. "I will say something about Tuchel because I have an outer body experience when I'm in England—you guys were talking a lot about the guys who are not here. I think you should talk about this team, not about the guys who were not selected. He's a good coach and he's doing a good job."

England now prepare for a semi-final showdown, with Argentina also securing their spot in the final four.