Didier Deschamps’ final match as France manager ended in agony Saturday, as his side was stunned 6-4 by England in the World Cup’s bronze medal playoff. A thrilling encounter saw Kylian Mbappé score twice, cementing his status as the tournament’s top scorer with 10 goals.

The match was a rollercoaster for France, who failed to honor Deschamps’ final game despite the lack of major stakes. Coming off a semi-final exit against Spain, the Bleus were overwhelmed in the opening 45 minutes, conceding four goals to Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and a brace from Bukayo Saka.

Didier Deschamps during the World Cup bronze medal match

Deschamps, in his 14th year as manager, endured a nightmare start as France’s defense crumbled under relentless pressure. Midfielder Adrien Rabiot described the opening period as “shameful,” while Deschamps himself labeled it an “unrecognizable first half.” Four tactical changes at halftime injected new life into the French side, with substitutions including Ousmane Dembélé and Bradley Barcola sparking a second-half revival.

Late fight falls short

Mbappé pulled two goals back, but England’s Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the 87th minute. Jude Bellingham added a late fourth to seal England’s memorable victory. “We gave everything, but today wasn’t our day,” Mbappé reflected after the match.

France team celebrating a goal in the World Cup bronze medal match

Though the result was a bitter disappointment for France, Mbappé’s performance ensured he leaves the tournament on a high note. The French captain now holds the record for most World Cup goals (22) and was the competition’s top scorer with 10 goals. “I would have preferred to win this match and finish my World Cup on a better note,” he admitted.

“We were completely stunned by England’s intensity in the first half. This isn’t how we wanted to say goodbye to Didier.”

“Some might call it disrespectful to the jersey. I’d say we were just human. Unfortunately, we can’t afford to be human in moments like these.”

Kylian Mbappé

England manager Thomas Tuchel, facing heavy criticism after Wednesday’s semi-final loss to Argentina, found some consolation in the bronze medal. “We dreamed of the grandest success, but falling short hurts deeply,” he admitted. The Three Lions’ fourth-place finish remains their best World Cup performance since their 1966 triumph.

England players celebrating their World Cup bronze medal

For France, the match served as a harsh reminder of the fine margins in elite football. While Mbappé’s heroics kept the Bleus competitive, their early capitulation proved costly. The defeat leaves Deschamps’ legacy slightly tarnished after an otherwise impressive 14-year tenure.