England defeated France 6–4 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place playoff to secure the bronze medal. The match featured 10 goals and an entertaining attacking display from both sides. Bukayo Saka starred for England with a hat-trick, while Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and Jude Bellingham also found the net to seal the victory. Despite France’s defeat, captain Kylian Mbappé achieved a historic milestone by scoring twice and becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, surpassing Lionel Messi’s previous record with 22 World Cup goals. The high-scoring contest in Miami was one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament, with France mounting a spirited comeback before England secured the result late in the game. Saka’s outstanding performance earned him the spotlight, while Mbappé’s record-breaking achievement became one of the defining moments of the tournament despite France finishing fourth.

