The English ruined Didier Deschamps' farewell. Thomas Tuchel's psychological game paid off

England spoiled Didier Deschamps' potential farewell match as French coach, securing a 6-4 victory in the World Cup third-place playoff. The English team established a dominant 4-0 lead by halftime, with goals from Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and a brace from Bukayo Saka. The French defense appeared disorganized, described as a group of boys playing together for the first time.

England coach Thomas Tuchel's pre-match comments, suggesting it would be better to go home after a semifinal loss than play for third place, seemed to be a deliberate psychological tactic. This approach may have contributed to France's initial lack of motivation and England's strong first-half performance. Deschamps, visibly disappointed, had to react to prevent a complete humiliation.

After halftime, France mounted a significant comeback. Kylian Mbappé scored his ninth goal of the tournament, followed by goals from Bradley Barcola and another from Mbappé, who surpassed Lionel Messi in World Cup goal tallies. The French team's resurgence left the English appearing surprised and defensively vulnerable.

In the closing stages, England regained control. Saka completed his hat-trick from a penalty, which he was awarded after Bellingham, who had come on as a substitute, deferred the kick to him. Bellingham then scored in added time to seal the 6-4 victory. The loss means France leaves the tournament without a medal, with Zinedine Zidane expected to take over from Deschamps.

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You deserved a better ending, but we failed. It's very difficult to put into words.