It was not the end they wanted, but England were at least able to win their Bronze Final match against France to claim third spot at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking to the press after the game, however, Harry Kane was caught in the midst of an unfortunate incident.
Kane was one of many key men rested for the match, but Declan Rice was played from the off, and the English midfielder gave his side an early lead with a fine solo goal. Ezri Konsa and two goals from Bukayo Saka would see Thomas Tuchel's men end the half 4-0 up.
France mounted a comeback in the second half, scoring three times, with Kylian Mbappe getting a brace while Bradley Barcola also scored. At 4-3, England put the game to bed with Saka bagging his hat-trick with a cool penalty. There was still time for Ousmane Dembele and Jude Bellingham to score deep into injury time, as the Three Lions won 6-4.
A member of groundstaff paints the pitch lines inside the stadium before the World Cup final Related
FIFA Accused of ‘Tyranny’ as Journalist Blocked From Covering 2026 World Cup Final
The journalist has explained what FIFA told him.
Kane Caught in Dramatic Journalist Clash
Harry Kane England
Harry Kane claps after England vs Argentina
REUTERS/Paul Childs
Kane didn't play in the match but was on media duty after the game. As the captain spoke in the mixed zone, however, tension boiled over between members of the press pack situated directly in front of him. Sharing footage of the incident, journalist Franco Panizo claimed that the English journalist tried to physically impede a local reporter from filming the player.
At this point, things got heated as both FIFA representatives and the local Miami police were called over to have a word with the English media. The cops were then seen entering the crowded area and eventually escorting one of the individuals away in an attempt to restore order and de-escalate the conflict.
Panizo shared his footage and explained:
"Tense post-game moment in mixed zone! A group of English media tried to physically impede a local reporter from filming an interview with Harry Kane after England’s 6-4 win over France. The local reporter called FIFA reps and Miami cops over to have word with English media."
Journalist Carrie Brown, who was the first woman to chair the Football Writers' Association, has since spoken out on the incident, defending the English media and claiming Panizo's comments and footage were misleading. She explained:
"Franco needs to get this misleading video down or I’ll recommend he gets any further accreditation to FIFA events withdraw. He’s been told repeatedly the man filming was in the wrong."
Panizo simply replied: "Have to love public blackmail."
Amid the distractions surrounding his interview, Kane spoke of pride when talking about England's efforts at the World Cup. He said: "I’m really proud. This is our highest finish in 60 years and our best result ever on foreign soil. To finish the tournament with a medal is the least we deserve for all the effort we’ve put in."