England signed off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a breathtaking 6 – 4 victory over France, claiming the bronze medal in one of the most remarkable matches in tournament history. What many expected to be a forgettable third place play off instead became an unforgettable spectacle filled with goals, drama, and a star making performance from Bukayo Saka.
The Arsenal winger stole the spotlight with a superb hat trick, becoming only the second England men’s player after Sir Geoff Hurst in the 1966 World Cup final to score three goals in a World Cup knockout match. His display also helped England secure their best World Cup finish since lifting the trophy 60 years ago and their highest finish ever outside home soil.
Thomas Tuchel’s side looked determined to erase the pain of their semi final defeat to Argentina. Seven changes brought fresh energy, and England stormed into a four goal lead before half time through Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and Saka’s first two goals, leaving France stunned.
Didier Deschamps’ side responded after the break with far greater intensity. Kylian Mbappe struck twice, with Bradley Barcola also finding the net, as France threatened one of the greatest comebacks in World Cup history. Mbappe’s brace also saw him become the tournament’s all time leading scorer with 22 World Cup goals.
England, however, refused to crumble. Saka calmly converted a late penalty after Djed Spence was fouled to complete his hat trick before Ousmane Dembele made it 5 – 4 in stoppage time. Jude Bellingham then capped the thrilling contest with a brilliant solo goal to seal the victory and finish the tournament with seven goals, the most ever scored by an England player at a single major tournament.
“It was like four matches, what happened here,” Tuchel said in an interview after the match. “Crazy first half and a turbulent second half. Massive compliment and respect for the mentality we showed.”
The German also defended his controversial decision not to use Saka during the semi final defeat. “Bukayo showed he was a key player. That was never a doubt,” he said.
Saka admitted he wished he had played a bigger role earlier in the tournament. “Of course, I would love to have played more. But it’s not the time to talk about that. I try to do my talking on the pitch.”
The performance will leave England fans wondering what might have been against Argentina. Yet it also offers hope ahead of Euro 2028. Despite criticism surrounding Tuchel, England ended the tournament with belief restored, a medal secured, and a young squad that once again showed its enormous attacking potential.
