England recorded their best finish at a World Cup since winning the tournament in 1966, securing a thrilling 6-4 victory over France in the bronze final in Miami. Bukayo Saka was the standout performer, scoring a superb hat-trick as the Three Lions bounced back from the heartbreak of their semi-final defeat to Argentina.
Perfect Start for England
England made an ideal start, with captain Declan Rice unleashing a stunning strike past stranded goalkeeper Mike Maignan in just the third minute. Ezri Konsa doubled the lead 15 minutes later, heading in from a Rice corner to put England in control. Saka then took center stage, scoring twice in nine minutes to give England a commanding 4-0 lead at halftime.
France's Second-Half Fightback
France, playing in Didier Deschamps' final match in charge, refused to surrender meekly. Kylian Mbappe scored twice either side of a Bradley Barcola strike, cutting England's lead to 4-3 and threatening a dramatic comeback. However, Saka restored England's two-goal cushion with a late penalty. Ousmane Dembele scored to set up a nervy finale, but Jude Bellingham sealed the win with a stunning solo goal, ensuring England clinched third place.
Player Ratings from Miami
Dean Henderson 7 – Made good saves in the first half but faced heavy pressure in the second half.
Jarell Quansah 7 – Solid in the first half but struggled in the second half.
Ezri Konsa 8 – Scored from a Rice corner and defended well in the first half, though less effective after the break.
Marc Guehi 8 – Delivered a strong first-half display, showing quickness, tenacity, and defiance.
Djed Spence 7 – Had a memorable moment chasing down Mbappe but was undone in the second half.
Declan Rice 8 – Scored and provided an assist, leading by example with the captain's armband in a terrific first half.
Eberechi Eze 7 – Impressive on the ball, showing bravery and epitomizing the DNA new manager Thomas Tuchel wants.
Bukayo Saka 9 – Electric in the first half, rewarded with a hat-trick in a performance reminiscent of his best form.
Morgan Rogers 7 – Strong and lively in the middle, providing a good audition amid links to Chelsea.
Marcus Rashford 7 – Looked more free and dangerous, providing an assist for Saka before being substituted at halftime.
Ivan Toney 7 – Led the line well, held up the ball, and showed he can be a viable option at No. 9.
Substitutes
Watkins (for Rashford, 46 mins) – 5
Bellingham (for Eze, 79 mins) – Scored a stunning solo goal to secure the win.
Anderson (for Toney, 79 mins) – No rating provided.
