FIFA president Gianni Infantino has just congratulated England on finishing third at the 2026 World Cup.
England were contenders to win the World Cup for the first time since 1966, but they lost 2-1 to Argentina in the semi-final.
Thomas Tuchel’s side then beat France 6-4 in the bronze final, the highest-scoring match of the tournament.
Although they desperately wanted to win the World Cup, England can still be proud of their best finish for 60 years.
Infantino recognised this achievement in an Instagram post on Tuesday, highlighting three key England players.
FIFA president praises England’s World Cup campaign and standout stars
Gianni Infantino praised England’s “incredible determination” to beat DR Congo, Mexico and Norway in the knockout rounds.
The Three Lions never quite found their rhythm on the pitch, instead relying on their hard work and mentality to get over the line.
However, there were several standout performances from Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, while Bukayo Saka scored a hat-trick against France.
Infantino named all three stars in his congratulatory message to England after the World Cup.
“Congratulations on your Bronze medal finish – it is a top achievement to finish third in the first 48-team FIFA World Cup,” Infantino wrote.
“You should be proud of this campaign, especially in the knockout games, where you showed incredible determination and character.
“From Harry Kane becoming the nation’s highest goalscorer at the FIFA World Cup to Jude Bellingham shining on the global stage and Bukayo Saka finishing with a hat-trick, it was a pleasure to host you in North America. See you soon!”
England will feel as though this World Cup was a missed opportunity, but it was undoubtedly a great effort.
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