Bukayo Saka scored a hat-trick as England defeated France 6-4 in the World Cup third-place playoff, but the match was overshadowed by a fallout between France's outgoing manager Didier Deschamps and forward Rayan Cherki.
Cherki, a Manchester City attacker, was substituted at half-time after England took a 4-0 lead through goals from Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa and two from Bukayo Saka. He was one of four France players replaced at the break.
“Bukayo Saka's hat-trick seals 6-4 England win over France, as Rayan Cherki's snub of outgoing boss Deschamps causes friction.”
The substitution followed two incidents during the tournament where Cherki appeared to snub Deschamps. After France's round of 32 win over Sweden, Cherki initially ignored the manager before giving a brief greeting. During the first half against England, during a hydration break with England 2-0 up, an agitated Deschamps attempted to give Cherki instructions, only for the player to wave his hand and walk away.
After the match, Deschamps said: “I’m not going to settle scores today.” The 14-year reign of the France boss ended after the tournament, with the team losing 2-0 to eventual winners Spain in the semi-final.
Despite the tension, Cherki took to Instagram to praise Deschamps. “I am infinitely grateful to the coach for everything he has achieved for French football and for giving me my first caps for Les Bleus,” he wrote. “Thank you to the whole squad for these unforgettable moments of brotherhood. Despite our differences, mistakes, or setbacks, we are one family.”
On the pitch, England’s victory was sealed by Saka’s late penalty and Jude Bellingham’s seventh goal of the tournament after he came off the bench. Kylian Mbappé scored twice for France, becoming the first male player to reach double figures at a World Cup since Gerd Müller in 1970.
Thomas Tuchel, who signed a contract extension before the tournament, faced boos from some England supporters at kick-off but said he wants to lead England into Euro 2028. The reception for the players as they collected bronze medals suggested their efforts were appreciated.