France XI vs England: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest for World Cup bronze final today
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England secured third place in the 2026 World Cup after a high-scoring 6-4 victory over France. The match featured a hat-trick from Bukayo Saka and significant scoring milestones for Kylian Mbappe.
Why it matters
The World Cup is the most significant global sporting event, and this match marks the conclusion of a major tournament cycle and the end of Didier Deschamps' tenure.
England vs France LIVE AFP/Getty Alex Young , Senior Sport Editor @ alexwsyoung | Dom Smith 6 hours ago England vs France LIVE
England secured third place at the World Cup with a thrilling 6-4 victory over France, while Kylian Mbappe became the tournament's all-time leading scorer in Didier Deschamps' final match as Les Bleus manager. The Three Lions stormed into a 4-0 half-time lead as Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa and Bukayo Saka, with two goals, punished a disorganised French defence.
France improved after the break following defensive changes from Deschamps, with Mbappe beginning the comeback before Bradley Barcola cut the deficit further. Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the 87th minute to restore England's control, before Mbappe struck again to take his World Cup tally to 22 goals. Ousmane Dembele pulled another back in stoppage time, but Jude Bellingham responded immediately with England's sixth.
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