England signed off their World Cup campaign in spectacular fashion with a pulsating 6-4 victory over France, securing third place for the first time in their history thanks to a brilliant Bukayo Saka hat-trick.
After the heartbreak of their semi-final defeat to Argentina, Thomas Tuchel's side delivered the response they needed in one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament. England raced into a four-goal lead before surviving a fierce French comeback to seal an unforgettable victory in Miami.
Goals from Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa and two from Saka gave England complete control in a remarkable first half, with France looking well below their usual standards.
However, Didier Deschamps' side came roaring back after the break. Kylian Mbappé pulled one back moments into the second half before Bradley Barcola reduced the deficit further. Mbappé then scored again to take his World Cup tally into double figures, becoming the first male player since Gerd Müller in 1970 to reach that milestone at a single tournament.
With England suddenly under pressure, Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot late on before substitute Jude Bellingham added England's sixth goal. Ousmane Dembélé also got on the scoresheet for France in a chaotic encounter that produced 10 goals and countless twists.
The victory ensured England finished their World Cup campaign on a high note, although the disappointment of missing out on a place in the final will linger.
The match also carried significance for both managers. Deschamps was overseeing his final game in charge of France after 14 years at the helm, while Tuchel continues to look ahead after signing a contract extension that could keep him in charge through Euro 2028.
England supporters had voiced frustration following the defeat to Argentina, but the reception given to the players after they received their bronze medals reflected appreciation for their efforts throughout the tournament.
Tuchel made seven changes from the semi-final defeat, with Declan Rice captaining the side in place of Harry Kane despite carrying an injury during the competition. Bukayo Saka was also handed a start despite concerns from Arsenal over his fitness ahead of the new season.
England made the perfect start when Rice capitalised on a loose pass from Désiré Doué to fire home inside three minutes. Saka then had a goal ruled out for offside before Ezri Konsa headed in Rice's corner to double the lead.
Marcus Rashford was heavily involved as England continued to dominate, forcing a fine save from Mike Maignan before Saka eventually added England's third following a swift counter-attack. The Arsenal winger struck again just before half-time after being picked out by Eberechi Eze to make it 4-0.
France made four changes at the interval and immediately looked rejuvenated. Mbappé scored within three minutes of the restart before Barcola's goal set up a tense finale. Mbappé added his second after combining neatly with Michael Olise, leaving England wobbling defensively.
France came close to forcing extra time when Olise missed a golden opportunity, but England regained control through Saka's penalty and Bellingham's late finish. Dembélé's goal ensured there was still time for one final twist in a truly extraordinary contest.
England may not have reached the World Cup final, but they ended their tournament with a performance and a victory that supporters will not forget in a hurry.
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