England outlasted France in a thrilling World Cup Bronze Final, winning 6-4 on Saturday in Miami Gardens, Florida.
First Half Dominance
England captain Declan Rice scored the first goal in the third minute, followed by Ezri Konsa’s header in the 18th minute. Bukayo Saka then scored two goals, making it 4-0 at halftime.
French Comeback
France made a quadruple substitution at halftime, bringing on Ousmane Dembélé, Lucas Digne, Dayot Upamecano, and Bradley Barcola. Kylian Mbappé scored his ninth goal of the tournament, overtaking Lionel Messi for the lead in the 2026 Golden Boot race.
Mbappé scored his second goal in the 66th minute, breaking a tie with Messi for most career World Cup goals. Olise broke Pele’s record for most assists in a single tournament with seven.
England’s Victory
Despite France’s comeback, England held on to win 6-4. Saka scored a hat trick, becoming the fourth player to do so for England in the men’s World Cup. Bellingham scored the final goal, securing England’s bronze medal.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.