Madrid World Cup Spotlight Mbappe ignites a Miami goal‑fest

In the Madrid World Cup Spotlight, Jude Bellingham struck in the 98th minute to give England their sixth goal and seal a 6‑4 victory over France in Miami. The late finish capped a dramatic third‑place play‑off in the WC.

Both managers rotated heavily, creating a looser, more open atmosphere than a semi‑final would normally provide. The extensive changes contributed to the free‑flowing nature of the encounter.

France lined up with Kylian Mbappe and Ibrahima Konate forming part of the back line, while England opted to keep Jude Bellingham on the bench at kickoff. The initial selections set the stage for an explosive first half.

England surged ahead through Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa and a double from Bukayo Saka, establishing a 4‑0 lead at the break. Eight goals were scored before halftime, underscoring the match’s attacking intensity.

The early onslaught exposed France’s defensive frailties, prompting the withdrawal of Ibrahima Konate at half‑time. The French side regrouped for the second half.

After the interval, Mbappe responded with two goals and Ousmane Dembele added a late strike, reviving France’s hopes. England restored control when Bellingham found the net in stoppage time.

The match ended 6‑4, becoming the highest‑scoring 2026 FIFA World Cup game since 1982 and leaving only the final to decide the tournament champion. Mbappe’s brace lifted his tournament tally to ten and his career World Cup total to 22, surpassing Lionel Messi and keeping his Golden Boot hopes alive. Fans worldwide buzzed about the goal‑fest that defined the Miami showdown.