Reece James and Trevoh Chalobah secured World Cup bronze with England after a remarkable 6-4 victory over Malo Gusto’s France in Miami.
Gusto started at right-back for France, while James and Chalobah were named among Thomas Tuchel’s substitutes.
England produced an extraordinary opening half. Declan Rice scored inside three minutes before Ezri Konsa and two Bukayo Saka goals established a 4-0 lead.
France responded after the interval as Kylian Mbappe scored twice and created Bradley Barcola’s goal. The comeback reduced England’s advantage to 4-3 and transformed the third-place play-off into one of the tournament’s most dramatic matches.
James and Chalobah help England survive France comeback
James replaced Jarell Quansah in the 83rd minute and entered at right-back with England attempting to regain control.
The Chelsea captain was soon involved in a frantic finish. Gusto was penalised for bringing down Djed Spence before Saka converted the resulting spot-kick to complete his hat-trick.
Ousmane Dembele made it 5-4 during added time, but Jude Bellingham finally secured victory with England’s sixth goal.
Chalobah replaced Marc Guehi during the closing moments, meaning all three current Chelsea players featured together before the final whistle.
The official Chelsea report confirmed England recorded their best men’s World Cup finish since winning the tournament in 1966.
James and Chalobah will now return to Chelsea with bronze medals, while Gusto’s impressive France campaign ended in fourth place.
Their extended international involvement means Xabi Alonso will need to manage their recovery carefully. As Read Chelsea previously reported, the trio have missed the opening stages of the club’s pre-season preparations.
