---
title: "Aston Villa star sends message after historic World Cup goal"
canonical: "https://readastonvilla.com/2026/07/20/aston-villa-star-sends-message-after-historic-world-cup-goal/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "Aston Villa News"
published: "2026-07-20T09:57:00Z"
modified: "2026-07-20T09:57:00Z"
---

# Aston Villa star sends message after historic World Cup goal

**Ezri Konsa has spoken of his pride after scoring in England’s extraordinary 6-4 victory over France in the World Cup third-place play-off.**

The Aston Villa defender headed home Declan Rice’s corner after 19 minutes in Miami, putting England 2-0 ahead during a dominant opening half.

Bukayo Saka scored twice before the interval as Thomas Tuchel’s side established a four-goal advantage. France threatened a remarkable comeback after half-time, but England eventually secured the bronze medal with two late goals.

Speaking to [Aston Villa’s official website](https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2026/july/19/internationals-postmatch-interview-konsa-proud-of-world-cup-bronze-medal/), Konsa reflected on fulfilling the childhood ambition of representing England at a World Cup.

The centre-back also explained how proud his family would be after watching him score on the biggest international stage.

> The Three Lions double their lead! 🦁⚽\
> \
> Ezri Konsa rises highest from Declan Rice's corner to head home 🙌 [pic.twitter.com/8BfI1LSDOQ](https://t.co/8BfI1LSDOQ)
>
> — Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) [July 18, 2026](https://x.com/BBCMOTD/status/2078591911225446684?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)

## Konsa returns to Villa with reputation enhanced

The tournament was Konsa’s first senior World Cup and provided another significant moment in his England career.

He started the bronze-medal match alongside Morgan Rogers, while Ollie Watkins and Lucas Digne appeared from the bench for their respective countries.

ReadAstonVilla previously covered how [Konsa’s goal helped England win the ten-goal World Cup classic](https://readastonvilla.com/2026/07/19/aston-villa-star-scores-as-quartet-feature-in-world-cup-classic/). The defender rose highest to convert Rice’s delivery before completing the full match.

England’s victory secured third place at a men’s World Cup for the first time. It was also their best finish since lifting the trophy in 1966.

Konsa will now return to Villa with further experience from a demanding international tournament.

Unai Emery already knows the defender’s importance at club level. A composed World Cup campaign and a memorable goal have strengthened Konsa’s growing reputation with England.