(Miami) The French national team was unable to mark Didier Deschamps’s final match at the helm with a victory, as the Bleus succumbed to a 6-4 defeat against England in the World Cup’s ‘small final’ on Saturday. This utterly wild encounter saw Kylian Mbappé net a brace, solidifying his sole ownership of the all-time World Cup goal-scoring record.

This outcome proved a harsh farewell for the departing Bleus boss, who had implored his squad not to trivialize their ultimate fixture, despite the absence of a major stake. It cast a shadow over an otherwise commendable World Cup journey, even after their semi-final exit, and did little justice to the immense contributions Deschamps has made to the French national team since 2012.

The seasoned coach will undoubtedly remember his turbulent farewell on the Hard Rock Stadium pitch, where an astonishing 10 goals were scored by both sides in a truly unbelievable contest. “This is the end of something that represented the most beautiful thing,” the national coach reflected after the match, vowing to become a “silent supporter” of the Bleus.

Deschamps, who had hoped to conclude his illustrious 14-year tenure at the helm of the French national team on a high note, experienced a whirlwind of emotions. He teetered on the brink of humiliation after a nightmarish first half, before a belated and ultimately futile resurgence from his players, spearheaded by captain Mbappé.

The Tricolores, clearly still reeling from their 2-0 semi-final defeat against Spain on Tuesday, were overwhelmed by England’s onslaught in the first half. They conceded four goals courtesy of Declan Rice (3^e), Ezri Konsa (18^e), and Bukayo Saka (37^e, 45^e+1), who effortlessly sliced through an apathetic and overwhelmed defense. Deschamps himself described it as “an unpresentable first half.”

Midfielder Adrien Rabiot, known for his outspoken nature, lambasted the first half as “shameful.” “We cannot be content with botching things like that,” the AC Milan player asserted.

The French backline was breached from all angles, forcing Deschamps to make no fewer than four changes at halftime. The introductions of forwards Ousmane Dembélé and Bradley Barcola, alongside defenders Dayot Upamecano and Lucas Digne, immediately revitalized the Bleus. They narrowed the deficit through Mbappé (48^e, 66^e) and Barcola (54^e), setting the stage for an almost surreal conclusion to the match.

A futile comeback

Ultimately, this spirited comeback proved futile. The French failed to deliver a fitting swansong for their coach, as Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot (87^e) before a stoppage-time goal from Jude Bellingham extinguished France’s last flickering hopes, moments after Ousmane Dembélé had pulled one back (90^e+6).

While the outcome was disappointing for Deschamps, his attackers, who had appeared lost against La Roja in the semi-final, at least rediscovered their captivating, spectacular play for 45 minutes, reminiscent of their early tournament form.

Though denied a second World Cup title after their 2018 triumph, Mbappé departs the competition with his head held high. With 22 goals across three final phases, he now stands as the sole record holder for World Cup goals and comfortably leads the 2026 edition’s scoring charts with 10.

“I would have gladly set the record aside if it meant having the chance to participate in the final,” Mbappé stated.

The French captain reflected that the Bleus were “completely stunned” by England’s performance in the opening 45 minutes.

Nevertheless, Mbappé has certainly put significant pressure on his direct rival, Lionel Messi, who will have the opportunity to respond to the Frenchman in the final against Spain, scheduled for Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The captain remained exemplary throughout his time in the United States, living up to his esteemed status. Already the Golden Boot winner in 2022 in Qatar, the Real Madrid forward is well-positioned to retain his title, barring an exceptional performance from the Argentine star in the final.

Deschamps, however, could not say the same for other Bleus players, particularly the defenders, who seemed disengaged for extended periods of the match. Yet, how can one fault players who arrived at this World Cup aiming for a third star, only to be crushed by their semi-final defeat and subsequently forced to contend for an inconsequential bronze medal?

For England and their German coach Thomas Tuchel, who faced intense criticism following their 2-1 defeat to Argentina on Wednesday, the result offers a small, albeit very minor, consolation. “We dreamed of the most glorious success and were filled with ambition. Under these circumstances, it becomes very painful not to sweep everything,” Tuchel admitted.

Nonetheless, England has secured its best World Cup finish since their sole title victory in 1966.