Bukayo Saka radiated joy following England’s historic third-place finish at the 2026 World Cup, securing the Three Lions’ most impressive result since their triumphant 1966 campaign. The Arsenal winger delivered a hat-trick in a thrilling 6-4 victory over France, a match that saw England lead 4-0 at halftime before France clawed back in the second period.
«This was an absolute rollercoaster,» Saka admitted to British broadcasters post-match. «Both teams were disappointed to miss the final, but we wanted to give the nation its best World Cup outcome in six decades. The final score reflects that effort.» He broke down the game’s dynamics, noting, «We dominated the first half, they fought back in the second, but our composure and those last two goals sealed the win.»
«I’d have loved more minutes, but this is our moment»
The 2026 European Championship runner-up also reflected on a pivotal penalty that earned him his third goal of the tournament—despite Jude Bellingham’s usual spot-kick responsibilities. «Jude never hesitated when he passed me the ball,» Saka explained with a grin. «He actually encouraged me to go for the treble. I stayed focused, and there was never any doubt I’d take it.»
Briefly addressing his own tournament journey, Saka revealed the mental challenge of starting five of England’s first seven matches from the bench, including no minutes in the 1-2 semi-final loss to Argentina. «Of course, I’d have loved more playing time,» he said, «but now isn’t the moment to dwell on it. What matters is we’ve turned the page and delivered for the team.»
With his 25th birthday approaching in September, Saka won’t have long to reflect—Nations League action resumes in two months, beginning with a high-stakes clash against Spain on August 26. A rematch he and his teammates would have eagerly awaited… had they reached the final.