Tuchel says England can be proud after 6-4 win over France secures third place

Thomas Tuchel praised his England squad after they secured third place at the World Cup with a 6-4 win over France, marking the first time the team has finished in the top three. The match was described as a 'very emotional' day for the players. England stormed to a 4-0 lead by halftime, with goals from stand-in captain Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and two from Bukayo Saka. However, France mounted a comeback after halftime following changes by outgoing manager Didier Deschamps, who was coaching his final game after 14 years in charge. Kylian Mbappé scored to bring his tournament tally to 10 goals and his all-time World Cup total to 22, surpassing Lionel Messi's record. Mbappé is now chasing a second consecutive Golden Boot, though Messi will have a chance to reclaim the record in the final against Spain on Sunday. Tuchel acknowledged the significance of the achievement but noted that bronze medals are never fully celebrated. The result gives England a tangible reward for their campaign, though the focus will soon shift to future tournaments.