England’s World Cup bronze shows this group is the best in years - now for gold

England’s 6-4 win over France in Miami secured the Three Lions a World Cup bronze - their best finish since 1966 - and left Declan Rice convinced major tournament glory is within touching distance. Last result: England 1-2 Argentina (2026-07-15). Recent form (last 5): 4W-0D-1L (LWWWW, most recent first). Next fixture: vs Spain (at home, 2026-09-26).

What did Rice say about England’s World Cup run?

Rice, standing in as captain, called this England’s best squad in years. “This is the best England group for a very long time. That’s a fact. No-one can take that away from us,” he told BBC Sport. The midfielder admitted the semi-final collapse against Argentina still stings, but insisted the bronze medal proves progress. “We’re tired of saying we’re proud of coming in semi-finals and quarter-finals - we want to win with England ultimately,” he said. “But to come third in this tournament is a real achievement.”

Why the broken-hearted praise from England’s staff?

Assistant manager Anthony Barry fought back tears in his half-time interview when England led France 4-0. “I’m a little bit emotional,” he said. “I can’t find the words to describe how proud I am of these players. They’re playing a game with broken hearts.” Barry’s raw emotion mirrored the squad’s pride after parading their medals in Miami. The staff’s outpouring underlined a belief that this group’s spirit - forged over seven weeks - can still scale the final hurdle.

Can Tuchel keep the England job after Argentina heartbreak?

Thomas Tuchel faces calls to resign after England’s semi-final exit to Argentina, but Rice and Barry’s backing suggests he’ll lead the side into Euro 2028 - co-hosted in England. Tuchel admitted the gap to the world’s elite remains, but insisted it’s bridgeable. “Eight years ago, France were the champions. Four years ago, they were in the final. There is a slight gap, but no problem,” he said. “We want to close it.”

What’s next for England after the World Cup high?

With Euro 2028 on the horizon, England must turn bronze into gold. Tuchel’s focus is fixing elite-game weaknesses exposed in Argentina. Next up: a home clash with Spain on 26 September 2026. The squad’s hunger, Rice argued, is undeniable. “It’s a game of small margins,” he said. “Football and the other night we lost on margins and in the boxes.”