Jude Bellingham Sets World Cup Record with 7 Goals for England

Jude Bellingham etched his name in football history by becoming the first England player to score seven goals in a single World Cup. His milestone strike came deep into stoppage time during England's thrilling 6-4 victory over France in the third-place playoff in Miami. Bellingham's goal in the 90+8 minute sealed England’s sixth goal and capped off a dramatic encounter that saw 10 goals—the most ever in a World Cup third-place match.

England Secures Best Finish Since 1966

The victory marked England’s best World Cup performance since their championship win in 1966, as they clinched third place for the first time in tournament history. Despite a fierce French comeback led by Kylian Mbappe, who netted twice to become the all-time leading World Cup scorer with 22 goals, England held firm to secure the win.

Bukayo Saka played a pivotal role in calming England’s nerves, completing his hat-trick with a penalty in the 87th minute to make it 5-3. Earlier, Saka had scored twice in the first half, following goals from Declan Rice and Ezri Konsa, which had given England a commanding 4-0 lead. France’s resurgence, including a late strike from Ousmane Dembele, kept the contest alive until Bellingham’s decisive goal.

Historic Night for Football

The match set a new record for the highest-scoring third-place playoff in World Cup history, surpassing France’s 6-3 win over West Germany in 1958. The game was also notable for its attacking intensity, with England opting for a forward-focused approach after criticism of their cautious play in the semi-finals. Even without Bellingham and captain Harry Kane in the starting lineup, England’s dynamic passing tore through France’s second-string defense early on.

Mbappe’s Milestone Overshadowed

While Bellingham’s record grabbed headlines, Mbappe’s achievement was equally historic. His brace brought his tournament tally to 10 goals, earning him the Golden Boot and surpassing Lionel Messi as the all-time World Cup top scorer. The 39-year-old Messi will have one last chance to add to his record when Argentina faces Spain in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.

England’s victory in Miami not only secured their place on the podium but also showcased their attacking prowess, with Bellingham’s record-breaking performance standing out as a highlight in a tournament full of memorable moments.

Source: Indian Express