England Edge France 6–4 to Finish Third at 2026 FIFA World Cup

England secured third place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating France 6–4 in a thrilling playoff match on Saturday in Miami.

The Three Lions raced into a commanding four goal lead in the first half through goals from Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and a first half brace from Bukayo Saka. France, however, mounted a spirited comeback after the break, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice and Bradley Barcola adding another to reduce the deficit.

Saka completed his hat trick from the penalty spot to restore England’s advantage before Ousmane Dembélé scored France’s fourth goal. Jude Bellingham then sealed England’s victory with a late strike, capping a dramatic encounter that produced ten goals.

Mbappé’s brace saw him become the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history with 22 career World Cup goals, surpassing Lionel Messi’s previous record.

The victory gives England their best World Cup finish since lifting the trophy in 1966, while France ended the tournament in fourth place after falling short in their comeback attempt.

Attention now shifts to the World Cup final, where defending champions Argentina face European champions Spain in East Rutherford, New Jersey.