Rice: Best England team for a long time? That's a fact

England's thrilling 6-4 victory over France in Miami secured the bronze medal at the 2026 World Cup, their highest finish since winning the trophy in 1966. Stand-in captain Declan Rice hailed the squad as the best England group in a long time, insisting major success is within reach.

"This is the best England group for a very long time. That's a fact. No-one can take that away from us," Rice told the BBC. He added: "We're tired of saying we're proud of coming in semi-finals and quarter-finals – we want to win with England ultimately. But to come third in this tournament is a real achievement."

Assistant manager Anthony Barry was emotional during his half-time interview, with tears in his eyes. "There's no frustration. I'm a little bit emotional. I can't find the words to describe how proud I am of these players. They're playing a game with broken hearts," he said.

Manager Thomas Tuchel faced criticism for his tactics in the semi-final loss to Argentina, but he is expected to remain in charge for Euro 2028, co-hosted by England. "I don't think that we lost the trust. Whatever happened in those 30 minutes against Argentina... it's my job to take decisions," Tuchel said. "We set ourselves the highest dream to chase, and it is very painful. The scar will stay."

Bukayo Saka, an unused substitute in the semi-final, scored a hat-trick against France. He said: "Of course, I would love to have played more but it's too late to talk about that. I try to do my talking on the pitch."

Captain Harry Kane, who did not play against France, called the group "one of the best England groups I have ever been part of" and praised the team's bond.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy said on BBC One: "[Tuchel] will keep his job but I don't think he should. He has failed." However, other pundits noted England's pace and power against France, with Martin Keown saying: "Pace and power, it's remarkable to see."