England take World Cup bronze after 6-4 thriller against France

England beat France 6-4 in the 2026 World Cup third-place play-off, securing their best finish at the tournament since 1966. Bukayo Saka was the decisive figure, scoring three times in a dramatic match at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

England appeared in complete control at half-time after goals from Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa and two from Saka built a 4-0 lead. France then turned the match into a genuine contest, with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice and Bradley Barcola also on target as England’s advantage was cut to one goal.

Saka’s late penalty, awarded after Djed Spence was challenged by Malo Gusto, gave England breathing space before Ousmane Dembele struck in stoppage time. Jude Bellingham then added England’s sixth in the 98th minute to end a chaotic 10-goal game.

The match also carried wider significance beyond the bronze medal. The report says Mbappe became the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer with 22 goals, while England’s display raised fresh debate about Saka’s limited role in the semi-final defeat to Argentina. Thomas Tuchel praised his squad’s mentality after a physically and emotionally demanding end to the tournament.