De Lanlay rescues Norway as Belgium are held

Norway came from behind twice as they held Belgium to retain their grip on second spot in UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 8.

Goals from Gianni Bruno and Ziguy Badibanga twice had the visitors in control but Marcus Pedersen and a fine first-time strike with 20 minutes remaining from substitute Yann-Erik de Lanlay earned a draw.

It was a hectic start, Joshua King shooting wide from an excellent position in the first minute for the hosts, before LOSC Lille Métropole forward Bruno connected with a Guillaume Francois cross to open the scoring. It could have been two moments later as Thomas Meunier fired against a post.

Joakim Våge Nielsen got free on the left and found Pedersen, who turned in the equaliser on 57 minutes, but Belgium were soon back in front, Badibanga unleashing a rocket from 25 metres which left Arild Østbø helpless in the home goal.

De Lanlay, however, matched that finish with a sweet shot after being played in by Harmet Singh. Belgium will hope to make amends when they host group leaders England on Monday.