England ended their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on a memorable high after defeating France 6–4 in an extraordinary third-place playoff at Miami Stadium on Saturday, 18 July 2026.
Bukayo Saka scored a superb hat-trick as England survived a dramatic second-half fightback from France to secure the bronze medal. Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa and Jude Bellingham were also on target for Thomas Tuchel’s side in one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament.
France captain Kylian Mbappé scored twice and played a central role in his team’s comeback attempt, but France’s poor first-half performance ultimately left them with too much work to do.
England Make a Flying Start
Both teams entered the match disappointed after losing their semifinals. France had been beaten 2–0 by Spain, while England suffered a 2–1 defeat against Argentina.
However, England quickly put that disappointment behind them and produced a fearless attacking performance.
Rice opened the scoring before Saka doubled the advantage, giving England control of the contest. France struggled to deal with England’s movement, pressing and quick passing in the final third.
Konsa then added England’s third goal before Saka struck again to make it 4–0 before halftime.
It was a remarkable opening period from England, who punished almost every French defensive mistake. Saka was particularly dangerous, repeatedly finding space and driving at the France backline.
France, by contrast, looked disorganised and lacked intensity. Their midfield struggled to protect the defence, while England were able to move the ball forward with little resistance.
France Launch a Stunning Comeback
The match changed completely after the break.
France returned with greater purpose and began pushing England deeper. Mbappé led the response, using his pace and movement to create problems for the England defence.
The French captain scored twice as France reduced the deficit and brought themselves back into the match. Michael Olise and Désiré Doué also contributed to France’s improved attacking display as Didier Deschamps’ side suddenly began to believe that an unlikely comeback was possible.
England, who had looked comfortable during the first half, became increasingly nervous as France attacked in numbers.
The score moved to 4–3, setting up a tense finish. France appeared capable of completing one of the greatest comebacks in World Cup history, but England managed to regain their composure at a crucial moment.
Saka Completes His Hat-Trick
With France searching for an equaliser, England were awarded a late penalty.
Saka stepped forward and calmly converted the spot kick to complete his hat-trick and restore England’s two-goal advantage.
The Arsenal winger’s performance was one of the finest individual displays of the tournament. His speed, finishing and intelligent movement caused France problems throughout the match.
France scored again to make it 5–4 and maintain the pressure, but Bellingham settled the contest deep into stoppage time.
The midfielder produced a composed finish to score England’s sixth goal and confirm a remarkable victory.
Bellingham’s goal brought an end to a chaotic match that featured ten goals, defensive errors, individual brilliance and constant attacking football.
Mbappé Reaches Another Milestone
Although France finished the tournament with defeat, Mbappé added another important chapter to his World Cup career.
His two goals took him to ten goals in the 2026 tournament and strengthened his position among the competition’s greatest goalscorers.
Mbappé carried France’s attack in the second half, but even his quality could not completely repair the damage caused by their poor start.
The defeat also marked the end of Deschamps’ long spell as France coach. He had managed the national team since 2012 and guided France to the 2018 World Cup title, the 2022 final and several other major tournament successes.
England Finish With Pride
England’s victory secured their best World Cup finish since winning the competition in 1966.
Although Tuchel and his players will remain disappointed that they failed to reach the final, the performance against France showed the attacking quality and resilience available within the squad.
Saka deservedly took the headlines, but England’s victory was also built on energetic contributions from Rice, Konsa and Bellingham.
The 6–4 result ensured that England left the tournament with a bronze medal and one of the most unforgettable victories in their World Cup history.