Ezri Konsa scored as all four Aston Villa players featured in England’s extraordinary 6-4 victory over France in the World Cup third-place play-off.
Konsa and Morgan Rogers started for Thomas Tuchel’s side in Miami, while Ollie Watkins and Lucas Digne entered for their respective countries at half-time.
England made a rapid start through Declan Rice before Konsa doubled their lead after 19 minutes. The Villa defender rose highest to head Rice’s corner beyond the France goalkeeper.
Two Bukayo Saka goals then sent England into the interval with a remarkable 4-0 advantage.
Villa quartet involved in frantic second half
France responded immediately after the break, with Kylian Mbappé and Bradley Barcola reducing the deficit before Mbappé struck again to make it 4-3.
Watkins was introduced as England looked to regain control, while Digne entered the France defence during their attempted comeback.
Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot before Ousmane Dembélé gave France further hope. Jude Bellingham finally secured the victory with England’s sixth goal in stoppage time.
The official Aston Villa report confirmed that Konsa and Rogers completed the full match.
Konsa’s goal provided another memorable moment during an impressive tournament for the centre-back.
As Read Aston Villa reported before the semi-finals, Villa had five players involved during the closing stages of the competition.
England’s victory secured their best men’s World Cup finish since winning the tournament in 1966.
