England Survive Intense French Attack to Secure Third Place in FIFA World Cup 2026

England secured third place at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating France 6-4 in a dramatic clash at the Hard Rock Stadium.

The Three Lions made a blistering start, taking a commanding lead through Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and a first-half brace from Bukayo Saka. Their attacking display left France with a mountain to climb heading into the second half.

France responded with determination after the break as Kylian Mbappe sparked the comeback with goals in the 48th and 66th minutes. Bradley Barcola also found the net before Ousmane Dembele struck deep into stoppage time, but England had already done enough to stay in front.

England restored their cushion through Jude Bellingham in added time, while Bukayo Saka also completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot to cap a memorable performance.

Despite France's spirited second-half fightback, England held their nerve in the closing stages to secure a hard-fought 6-4 victory. The result seals third place for the Three Lions, who overcame a late French surge to finish their World Cup campaign on a winning note.