France and England will battle for third place at the 2026 World Cup on Saturday evening, as two disappointed semi-finalists look to finish their campaigns on a positive note. While neither side wanted to be involved in the bronze-medal match, there is still pride, momentum and history at stake in Miami after both fell one step short of Sunday’s final.

France

France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final came to an end with a 2-0 defeat to Spain, a result that also marked the final competitive loss of Didier Deschamps’ remarkable World Cup career.

Les Bleus had looked the most complete team in the tournament before the semi-finals, winning all six previous matches while scoring 16 goals. However, Spain successfully nullified Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, restricting France to very few clear-cut opportunities.

Despite that setback, France still possess one of the tournament’s strongest squads. Mbappe remains among the leading Golden Boot contenders, while Michael Olise, Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola have all impressed throughout the competition.

History is also on France’s side. Les Bleus have won three of their last four meetings with England and defeated the Three Lions in the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup. They have also enjoyed success in previous third-place matches, finishing third in both 1958 and 1986.

There are injury concerns in defence after William Saliba was forced off during the defeat to Spain with a recurring back problem. Maxence Lacroix is expected to replace the Arsenal defender, while Didier Deschamps may also consider recalling Ibrahima Konate.

England

England arrive in Miami after another painful near miss, having surrendered a 1-0 lead to lose 2-1 against Argentina in the closing stages of their semi-final.

Thomas Tuchel’s side had overcome DR Congo, Mexico and Norway to reach the last four, but once again fell short against one of international football’s established heavyweights.

Questions have inevitably been asked about England’s defensive approach after taking the lead, although Tuchel has publicly accepted responsibility while insisting his side remain on the right path.

There are still encouraging signs for the future. Jude Bellingham has enjoyed another outstanding tournament, Harry Kane continues to deliver on the biggest stage, and England have now reached another major tournament semi-final after consistent progress over recent years.

The Three Lions have their own injury concerns. Reece James is expected to miss out after suffering a muscular problem against Argentina, while Jordan Henderson remains unavailable following wrist surgery. Jarell Quansah returns from suspension and could feature, although Djed Spence is likely to continue in the starting XI.

England have lost both previous World Cup third-place play-offs, in 1990 and 2018, and will be determined to avoid another fourth-place finish.

Verdict

Both teams enter this match disappointed after seeing their World Cup dreams ended in the semi-finals, but France appear slightly better equipped to respond. Les Bleus have looked more convincing throughout the tournament and possess greater attacking depth, while England may still be feeling the emotional and physical effects of their dramatic defeat to Argentina.

Tip

France to win in 90 minutes.