England midfielder Jude Bellingham has written another remarkable chapter in the nation’s football history after becoming the first player to score seven goals in a single FIFA World Cup campaign.
The 23 year old Real Madrid star achieved the historic milestone during England’s dramatic 6–4 victory over France in the third place playoff at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further cementing his reputation as one of the finest players of his generation.
Bellingham’s late goal capped a breathtaking encounter that saw England secure the bronze medal in one of the highest scoring matches ever witnessed at the World Cup. The midfielder entered the match from the bench but once again demonstrated his ability to influence the biggest occasions, producing a brilliant individual effort deep into stoppage time to seal the victory.
The goal lifted his tournament tally to seven, setting a new England record and surpassing achievements that had stood for decades.
Bellingham surpasses England legends
Before the tournament, England’s best scoring performance at a single World Cup was shared by two legendary forwards.
Gary Lineker scored six goals during the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, a record that stood for more than three decades before Harry Kane equalled the feat at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Kane matched the six goal mark again during the 2026 tournament.
Bellingham has now moved ahead of both iconic strikers despite operating primarily as a midfielder rather than a traditional centre forward.
His remarkable tournament included goals against Croatia and Panama in the group stage before producing match winning braces against Mexico and Norway during the knockout rounds. His decisive strike against France completed an unforgettable campaign and placed him alone at the top of England’s World Cup scoring history.
Saka shines with memorable hat trick
Although Bellingham’s record dominated the headlines, Bukayo Saka also enjoyed a night to remember.
The Arsenal winger delivered his finest performance of the tournament by scoring his first three goals of the competition to complete a superb hat trick. His pace, movement and finishing constantly troubled the French defence as England built a commanding lead.
One of the defining moments of the match came when England were awarded a late penalty. Despite chasing an individual record, Bellingham encouraged Saka to take the spot kick, allowing his teammate the opportunity to complete his hat trick.
Speaking after the match, Saka revealed that Bellingham had immediately insisted he should take the penalty, highlighting the unity and selflessness within Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
England’s brightest star continues to shine
Bellingham’s performances throughout the World Cup have reinforced his status as one of the world’s elite midfielders.
Already a Champions League winner and one of Real Madrid’s key players, he has now added another historic achievement to an already impressive career.
His ability to score crucial goals, dictate the tempo of matches and lead by example has made him the driving force behind England’s impressive tournament run.
Football pundits have praised not only his technical quality but also his maturity, leadership and composure under pressure. Former England midfielder Danny Murphy described Bellingham as England’s best player after his outstanding display against France, highlighting his confidence and exceptional individual ability.
England leaves tournament with optimism
Although England narrowly missed out on a place in the World Cup final after losing to Argentina in the semi finals, the team’s third place finish represents another positive step under manager Thomas Tuchel.
The tournament showcased the emergence of a talented generation led by Bellingham, Saka and captain Harry Kane, giving supporters plenty of reasons for optimism ahead of future international competitions.
England’s attacking football produced goals throughout the tournament, while several young players gained invaluable experience on football’s biggest stage.
England’s highest scorers at a single major tournament
Player. Tournament. Goals
Jude Bellingham. World Cup 2026. 7
Harry Kane. World Cup 2026. 6
Harry Kane. World Cup 2018. 6
Gary Lineker. World Cup 1986. 6
Alan Shearer. Euro 1996. 5
Sir Geoff Hurst. World Cup 1966. 4
Wayne Rooney. Euro 2004. 4
Bellingham’s record breaking campaign has already secured his place among England’s greatest footballers. At just 23 years of age, he has surpassed achievements once thought untouchable, becoming the first English player to score seven goals in a single World Cup.
With his career still entering its prime, the Real Madrid midfielder appears destined to break even more records as England continue building towards future international success under Thomas Tuchel.
