Bellingham: The national team deserves this honorable conclusion

England football star Jude Bellingham was as frustrated as anyone by England’s failure to win the World Cup, but he believes the team’s best performance at the tournament since 1966 can serve as a foundation for future success.

British news agency PA Media reported that Thomas Tuchel’s side was minutes away from the final, but their cautious approach handed Argentina the opportunity to mount a comeback, resulting in a painful 2-1 defeat in the semi-final.

England players showed a remarkable response in the third-place playoff on Saturday, securing the bronze medal in thrilling fashion in Miami. Bellingham, who came on as a substitute, brilliantly sealed the 6-4 victory.

This marks England’s men’s best World Cup performance since they won the title in 1966, and Bellingham, who scored seven goals in the tournament, hopes this achievement will provide a strong boost for future success, starting with the European Championship hosted by his country in two years’ time.

He added: “Of course, this wasn’t what we came for, but achieving our best finish since 1966 is something we can build on.”