England concluded their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in spectacular fashion after defeating France 6-4 in an unforgettable third-place play-off, with 24-year-old Bukayo Saka producing a hat-trick in one of the highest-scoring matches in World Cup history. England made a blistering start, taking the lead just three minutes into the contest when captain Declan Rice found the back of the net. Defender Ezri Konsa doubled the advantage in the 18th minute before Saka struck twice, scoring in the 37th minute and again in first-half stoppage time to hand the Three Lions a commanding 4-0 lead at the b

England concluded their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in spectacular fashion after defeating France 6-4 in an unforgettable third-place play-off, with 24-year-old Bukayo Saka producing a hat-trick in one of the highest-scoring matches in World Cup history. England made a blistering start, taking the lead just three minutes into the contest when captain Declan Rice found the back of the net. Defender Ezri Konsa doubled the advantage in the 18th minute before Saka struck twice, scoring in the 37th minute and again in first-half stoppage time to hand the Three Lions a commanding 4-0 lead at the break. France responded with determination after halftime. Captain Kylian Mbappé reduced the deficit in the 48th minute before Bradley Barcola added another six minutes later. Mbappé struck again in the 66th minute to make it 4-3 and set up a dramatic finish. England, however, held their composure. Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the 87th minute to restore a two-goal cushion. Although Ousmane Dembélé scored for France deep into stoppage time, Jude Bellingham immediately responded with England's sixth goal in the 98th minute, sealing an entertaining 6-4 victory. Saka was named Player of the Match after delivering a decisive performance, while Bellingham finished the tournament with seven goals. Speaking after the match, Saka said the team was determined to finish the tournament on a positive note despite the disappointment of missing the final. "It was a crazy game. We wanted to finish strong and give our country the best possible ending. We fell short of reaching the final, but we're happy with the way we responded," he said. England head coach Thomas Tuchel praised his players' mentality after overcoming physical fatigue in a demanding tournament. "We had an outstanding first half and a difficult second half, but the mentality of this team was exceptional. They showed great character throughout the game," Tuchel said. Despite the defeat, 27-year-old Kylian Mbappé further strengthened his legacy by becoming the FIFA World Cup's all-time leading goalscorer while also moving to the top of the Golden Boot standings with his brace. The victory ensured England finished third at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while France ended the tournament in fourth after a thrilling encounter that will be remembered as one of the competition's greatest third-place matches.

A little more informed. A little more connected.