England defeated France 6-4 in a thrilling third-place playoff at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing their best finish at the tournament since winning the title in 1966.
The Three Lions made a dream start, taking the lead after just three minutes when Declan Rice capitalised on a misplaced pass by Desire Doue before firing a powerful shot past Mike Maignan. It was England’s earliest goal in a competitive match since Luke Shaw scored in the UEFA Euro 2020 final.
England doubled their advantage in the 18th minute through Ezri Konsa, who headed home from a cross, before Bukayo Saka added a third in the 37th minute after a rapid counterattack.
Saka struck again in first-half stoppage time, finishing off a pass from Eberechi Eze to give England a commanding 4-0 lead at the break. It was the first time France had conceded four goals in the opening half of a match since 1968.
France mounted a spirited comeback after the restart. Kylian Mbappe scored in the 48th minute, and substitute Bradley Barcola reduced the deficit further six minutes later.
Mbappe added his second goal in the 66th minute after combining with Michael Olise, bringing France within one goal and moving ahead in the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot.
England restored their cushion late in the match when Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the 87th minute after Djed Spence was fouled by Malo Gusto.
France responded through Ousmane Dembele in stoppage time, but Jude Bellingham sealed England’s victory moments later with a composed finish after a surging run, completing a remarkable 10-goal contest.
The victory earned England third place at the 2026 World Cup, while France finished the tournament in fourth.