France and England Clash for Third Place in Prestigious Battle

The match scheduled for Sunday morning is not just a contest for third place but also an opportunity to honor a dream left unfulfilled with dignity. France and England, defeated in the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026, will face each other Sunday morning to compete for the third place. Historically, these two teams have met 32 times, with England winning 17 matches and France 15. Both teams, led by key players including Golden Boot contender Kylian Mbappé, aim to end the tournament on a positive note. Kathmandu, 19 July. France and England, two dominant teams in the FIFA World Cup 2026, were eliminated in the semifinals. They now face off to claim third place on Sunday. Although out of the title race, both teams are eager to finish the tournament honorably by winning this important match, which many view as a significant battle to fulfill an unfinished dream.

England began their campaign impressively by defeating Croatia 4–2 in the group stage. They then drew 0–0 with Ghana and beat Panama 2–0 to top their group. In the knockout rounds, Thomas Tuchel’s team faced tough competition. They defeated DR Congo 2–1 in the round of 32 and overcame co-host Mexico 3–2 in extra time in the round of 16. After a 2–1 win against Norway in the quarterfinals, they were defeated 2–1 by Argentina in the semifinals. France also delivered consistent performances throughout the group stages, advancing to the knockout rounds with strong form. They maintained momentum in the knockout phase, reaching the semifinals before being eliminated 2–0 by Spain, ending their title aspirations.

In recent years, these two football powerhouses have exhibited a fierce rivalry, challenging each other in both the World Cup and European Championship tournaments. To date, they have contested 32 matches: England has won 17, France 15, with five draws. In World Cup history, England has won two matches against France, who has won one. While the third-place match is often seen as a consolation game, it holds significant importance for both sides. England, dreaming of winning their second World Cup title since 1966, fell short of the final despite reaching the semifinals for the second consecutive time. They now aim to finish the tournament with a medal. France, hoping to reach their third consecutive World Cup final, saw that dream shattered by Spain. For Didier Deschamps’ squad, third place represents a chance to conclude their campaign on a positive note.

This match also holds personal significance for players. France’s Kylian Mbappé remains in the Golden Boot race and will strive to add more goals. England’s captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have performed admirably, with Bellingham notably scoring decisive knockout goals. Coaches may consider some changes in the squad lineup after a long tournament, resting key players and giving chances to reserves. England may start with Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon, Marcus Rashford, or Cole Palmer, while France might include Michael Olise, Barloti Barcola, Eduardo Camavinga, or Randal Kolo Muani in the starting eleven.

Key players to watch include Kylian Mbappé for France, who will attempt to score against England to strengthen his Golden Boot bid. Osman Dembélé will be instrumental on the right flank both in providing assists and scoring. England captain Harry Kane is expected to play a decisive role despite currently trailing Lionel Messi and Mbappé in the Golden Boot race. Jude Bellingham is also projected to deliver a strong performance. The partnership between Bellingham and Kane will be crucial in securing a medal for England.

Probable starting lineups:
France: Mike Maignan; Jules Koundé, Ibrahima Konaté, Maxence Lacroix, Theo Hernandez; Manu Koné; Michael Olise, Osman Dembélé, Rayan Cherki; Kylian Mbappé
England: Jordan Pickford; Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Niko O’Reilly; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson; Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon; Harry Kane

Match: England vs. France for Third Place
Date and time: 3 July, 2:45 AM
Venue: Miami Stadium
Live broadcast: Himalaya Sports