England beat France in a chaotic World Cup third-place playoff
England defeated France 6-4 in the 2026 World Cup third-place playoff match held in Miami. Despite the loss, French star Kylian Mbappe set a new record as the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history.
Why it matters
The match marks the conclusion of a major international tournament and highlights significant individual athletic milestones in professional football.
England beat France 6-4 in a chaotic World Cup third-place playoff as Kylian Mbappe became the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history.
Both teams had higher aspirations at the 2026 tournament but suffered painful semi-final exits -- France were outplayed by Spain while England suffered a late collapse against Argentina.
Both coaches made multiple changes for the match in the oppressive heat of Miami, with a host of stars on the bench at the start.
England boss Thomas Tuchel left out Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham from his starting line-up while Deschamps, stepping down after 14 years at the helm, omitted Bradley Barcola and Ousmane Dembele.
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice put England ahead with a goal from distance in the third minute and Ezri Konsa headed home to make it 2-0.
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