The clash in Miami was the first time England have needed extra time so far in the tournament but it continued a pattern of hard-fought victories in the knockout sages.
England fell behind in the Round of 32 win over DR Congo, as Harry Kane scored twice late on to win 2-1, and they had to survive a storm of Mexico pressure in a famous 3-2 victory at the Estadio Azteca in the last 16.
There's a growing sense of England doing what's required to pass each stage, but the level steps up in the semi-finals, as Thomas Tuchel's team face defending champions Argentina ahead of a potential final against either Spain or France.
Tuchel was bullish in his post-match assessment, claiming England were 'lucky' to get past Norway, and former Three Lions international Micah Richards is concerned about their current level of performance.
"We all know they didn't play well enough (vs. Norway) to go and win the tournament. But there's something about getting over the line," he told BBC Sport.
"I go back to Real Madrid a couple of years ago when they beat PSG, Man City and Chelsea in the dying moments of the game. It's just that bit of England's game that I'm enjoying at the moment where they can find a way to win.
"They have to improve and the manager was completely right in what he said. He's sending a message. He knows it wasn't good enough. They got the job done - but there's loads of work to do if you want to win the World Cup."