The record for the most goals scored in a FIFA World Cup third-place game is nine total goals.
The record was originally established at the 1958 FIFA World Cup, when France defeated West Germany 6-3. It was matched 68 years later when England defeated France 5-4 in the third-place playoff at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Highest-Scoring FIFA World Cup Bronze Medal Games
| Year | Match | Score | Total Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1958 | France vs. West Germany | 6-3 | 9 |
| 2026 | England vs. France | 5-4 | 9 |
Both matches produced nine goals, making them the highest-scoring bronze medal games in men’s FIFA World Cup history.
France Beat West Germany 6-3 in 1958
France set the original record on June 28, 1958, defeating West Germany 6-3 in the third-place playoff at Nya Ullevi in Gothenburg, Sweden.
French striker Just Fontaine delivered one of the greatest individual performances in World Cup history by scoring four goals. Raymond Kopa and Yvon Douis also scored for France.
West Germany’s goals were scored by Hans Cieslarczyk, Helmut Rahn and Hans Schäfer.
The nine-goal match helped France secure its first third-place finish at a FIFA World Cup.
Just Fontaine’s Historic World Cup Record
Fontaine’s four goals against West Germany increased his total to 13 goals at the 1958 World Cup.
That remains the record for the most goals scored by one player during a single men’s FIFA World Cup tournament.
Fontaine scored his 13 goals in only six appearances, including a hat trick against Paraguay and four goals in the bronze medal match.
England and France Matched the Record in 2026
The record was matched during the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place game, when England defeated France 5-4 in Miami on July 18, 2026.
England entered halftime with a commanding 4-0 advantage before France produced a dramatic second-half comeback. Bukayo Saka completed a hat trick from the penalty spot in the 86th minute, giving England its fifth goal.
France continued fighting and scored in stoppage time, but England held on for the 5-4 victory and the World Cup bronze medal.
The nine combined goals tied the record established by France and West Germany in 1958.
Who Scored in the England vs. France Third-Place Game?
England’s goals came from:
- Declan Rice
- Ezri Konsa
- Bukayo Saka, who scored three goals
France received goals from:
- Kylian Mbappé, who scored twice
- Bradley Barcola
- Ousmane Dembélé
Saka’s hat trick made him one of the few England players to score three times in a single World Cup match.
Why Are World Cup Third-Place Games Often High-Scoring?
Third-place games regularly produce entertaining and attacking soccer.
Teams playing in the bronze medal match have already been eliminated from championship contention, which can reduce the tactical caution normally associated with knockout games. Coaches may also rotate their lineups and give opportunities to attacking players who did not start regularly earlier in the tournament.
The result is often a more open game featuring additional chances and goals.
What Is the Biggest Winning Margin in a World Cup Third-Place Game?
The highest-scoring bronze medal match should not be confused with the largest margin of victory.
France’s 6-3 win over West Germany was decided by three goals, while England’s 5-4 victory over France was decided by only one.
The record specifically refers to the total number of goals scored by both teams, not the margin separating the winner and loser.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest-scoring FIFA World Cup third-place game?
The highest-scoring FIFA World Cup third-place game featured nine total goals. France beat West Germany 6-3 in 1958, while England beat France 5-4 in 2026.
How many goals were scored in the 1958 World Cup third-place game?
Nine goals were scored as France defeated West Germany 6-3.
Who scored four goals in the 1958 bronze medal game?
Just Fontaine scored four goals for France against West Germany.
How many goals did Just Fontaine score at the 1958 World Cup?
Fontaine scored 13 goals, the most by any player during a single men’s FIFA World Cup.
Who won the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place game?
England defeated France 5-4 to win the bronze medal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Who scored a hat trick in the 2026 World Cup third-place match?
Bukayo Saka scored three goals for England against France.
Final Answer
The record for the most goals scored in a FIFA World Cup bronze medal game is nine.
France’s 6-3 victory over West Germany in 1958 established the record, with Just Fontaine scoring four times. England’s dramatic 5-4 victory over France at the 2026 World Cup later matched it.