Bukayo Saka Becomes First England World Cup Player in 60 Years to Achieve This Feat After 6-4 Win Over France
Bukayo Saka wrote his name into England’s FIFA World Cup history books with a sensational hat-trick in the Three Lions’ remarkable 6-4 victory over France in the 2026 World Cup third-place playoff.
The Arsenal star became only the second England player to score a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup knockout-stage match, joining legendary striker Sir Geoff Hurst, who famously scored three times against West Germany in the 1966 World Cup final.
Saka Joins Sir Geoff Hurst in Exclusive England Club
Saka’s treble against France ended a 60-year wait for another England player to achieve the remarkable feat in a World Cup knockout game.
Hurst’s iconic hat-trick helped England defeat West Germany 4-2 after extra time and lift their first and, to date, only World Cup trophy in 1966. Six decades later, Saka has become the first Three Lions player since Hurst to score three goals in a knockout-stage match at the tournament.
England Beat France 6-4 in Ten-Goal Thriller
England and France produced one of the most entertaining matches of the 2026 World Cup as Thomas Tuchel’s side secured third place with an extraordinary 6-4 victory.
Declan Rice opened the scoring in the third minute before Ezri Konsa doubled England’s advantage. Saka then struck three times, while Jude Bellingham completed the scoring for the Three Lions.
France mounted a spirited fightback through a Kylian Mbappe brace and goals from Bradley Barcola and Ousmane Dembele, but England ultimately held on to secure the bronze medal and their best World Cup finish since winning the competition in 1966.
Saka Returns to Arsenal After Historic World Cup Moment
Despite ending his tournament with an unforgettable hat-trick, Saka did not enjoy the greatest World Cup overall by his usual high standards. However, his historic performance against France ensured that he finished the competition on a memorable personal high.
After some well-earned rest following a long World Cup campaign, Saka will turn his attention back to club football. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will undoubtedly be eagerly awaiting the return of his Starboy, hoping the England international can use his historic World Cup finale as a springboard to lead the Gunners towards even greater things in the upcoming season.
