England beat France
England produced one of the most exciting performances of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by defeating France 6-4 in the third-place play-off. The dramatic contest featured a hat-trick from Bukayo Saka, while Kylian Mbappe broke the all-time FIFA World Cup goals record despite ending on the losing side.
The thrilling 10-goal encounter gave England their best World Cup finish since 1966 and ended France’s campaign in heartbreaking fashion.
England Make a Flying Start
England wasted no time taking control of the match.
Just three minutes after kick-off, Declan Rice intercepted a poor pass from France and fired a powerful long-range shot into the bottom corner to make it 1-0.
France tried to respond quickly, but England continued to dominate possession and create dangerous chances.
Their pressure paid off again in the 18th minute when Ezri Konsa headed home from a well-delivered corner by Rice, doubling England’s lead.
Bukayo Saka Shines Before Half-Time
England’s attacking football overwhelmed France during the first half.
Marcus Rashford made an excellent run before setting up Bukayo Saka, who calmly finished to score England’s third goal in the 37th minute.
Deep into first-half stoppage time, Saka struck again after a perfectly timed through ball from Eberechi Eze split the French defence.
At half-time, England held a comfortable 4-0 lead.
France Fight Back in the Second Half
France refused to give up after the break.
Kylian Mbappe scored early in the second half to reduce the deficit and move level with Lionel Messi in the all-time FIFA World Cup scoring charts.
Only minutes later, substitute Bradley Barcola made it 4-2 with a powerful finish.
Mbappe then found the net again in the 66th minute, becoming the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer with his 22nd World Cup goal.
France suddenly believed an incredible comeback was possible.
Saka Completes His Hat-Trick
As France pushed forward, England earned a late penalty after Djed Spence was fouled inside the box.
Bukayo Saka confidently converted the penalty to complete his hat-trick and restore England’s two-goal advantage.
His outstanding performance made him only the second England player to score a World Cup knockout-stage hat-trick after Geoff Hurst in the 1966 final.
Late Drama Before England Seal Victory
Ousmane Dembele scored in stoppage time to make the score 5-4 and create late tension.
However, substitute Jude Bellingham quickly ended France’s hopes with a brilliant solo goal, sealing an unforgettable 6-4 victory for England.
The win secured the bronze medal for the Three Lions and ended France’s World Cup campaign.
Mbappe Creates World Cup History
Although France lost the match, Kylian Mbappe achieved another incredible milestone.
His two goals took his overall FIFA World Cup tally to 22 goals, moving him ahead of Lionel Messi as the competition’s all-time leading goalscorer.
Mbappe also strengthened his lead in the Golden Boot race, making him one of the standout performers of the tournament.
Declan Rice Delivers an Outstanding Performance
Declan Rice played a major role in England’s success.
He scored the opening goal and later provided the assist for Ezri Konsa’s header.
Rice controlled the midfield throughout the game and helped England dominate during the first half.
also See
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- https://www.fifa.com/
Thomas Tuchel Responds After Semi-Final Criticism
England manager Thomas Tuchel faced criticism following the team’s semi-final defeat to Argentina.
Some supporters even booed him before kick-off because of his tactical decisions in that match.
However, England responded with an attacking display against France, showing far more creativity and confidence throughout the contest.
Match Highlights
- England defeated France 6-4 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place play-off.
- Bukayo Saka scored a memorable hat-trick.
- Kylian Mbappe became the all-time leading FIFA World Cup goalscorer.
- Declan Rice finished with one goal and one assist.
- Jude Bellingham scored the final goal to secure England’s bronze medal.
Final Thoughts
England ended their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on a high by producing one of the tournament’s most entertaining matches. Bukayo Saka’s brilliant hat-trick, Declan Rice’s midfield dominance, and Jude Bellingham’s late goal ensured the Three Lions returned home with the bronze medal.
France showed incredible fighting spirit during the second half, but despite Kylian Mbappe making World Cup history with his record-breaking goals, England’s attacking quality proved too strong on an unforgettable night.
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