Playing for the prize that neither nation truly wanted to contest before the tournament began, France and England meet in Saturday’s World Cup 2026 third-place playoff at MetLife Stadium.

Les Bleus saw their hopes of reaching the final ended by Spain, while England once again fell short against elite opposition after losing to defending champions Argentina.

Verdict: France win

Best odds: 23/25

Bookmaker: 20bet

France

France arrive at the bronze-medal match disappointed by the manner of their semi-final defeat to Spain. Didier Deschamps publicly acknowledged La Roja’s status as favourites before kickoff, and the European champions ultimately justified that billing with a controlled 2–0 victory.

Spain’s defensive organisation and midfield control largely neutralised France’s attacking threat, restricting Kylian Mbappe and company to a subdued display. While the result ended France’s hopes of another World Cup final appearance, it does little to diminish Deschamps’s legacy, having guided the national side through one of its most successful eras. On the other hand, his own fault for what happened against Spain cannot be forgotten.

The departing manager now takes charge of France for one final match and will aim to secure a third World Cup bronze medal for Les Bleus. France won both previous successful third-place playoffs in 1958 and 1986, while finishing fourth in 1982.

Despite frustration surrounding the semi-final defeat, France remain one of the tournament’s strongest sides. They reached this stage after winning each of their previous knockout matches and still possess immense quality throughout the squad.

Team News

There are injury concerns, however. William Saliba appears unlikely to feature after aggravating a longstanding back issue against Spain. His absence could open the door for Maxence Lacroix to step into the defence, while Ibrahima Konate is also an option if Deschamps decides to rotate his back line.

Backup goalkeeper Brice Samba missed training after the semi-final, though this is not expected to affect France’s starting goalkeeper position. Elsewhere, only minor tweaks are anticipated as Deschamps seeks to end his tenure on a positive note.

England

England’s semi-final defeat to Argentina has reignited familiar questions about their ability to overcome the very best teams on football’s biggest stage.

Thomas Tuchel’s side actually made an encouraging start in Atlanta, taking the lead through Anthony Gordon and exposing weaknesses in Argentina’s wide areas. However, once they dropped deeper and invited pressure, the reigning champions gradually assumed control.

Lionel Messi’s brilliance ultimately proved decisive, as his creativity inspired Argentina’s comeback and condemned England to another heartbreaking result in a major tournament. The defeat continued a long-standing trend, with the Three Lions once again unable to overcome top-tier opposition in the knockout rounds.

While a third-place finish would still represent England’s second-best World Cup result this century, it is unlikely to provide much comfort after another missed opportunity. Their previous appearances in third-place playoffs ended in defeat, losing to Italy in 1990 and Belgium in 2018.

Team News

England also face selection issues at the back. Reece James suffered a muscular injury during the semi-final and appears unlikely to be available. Jarell Quansah has completed his suspension and is an option, while Djed Spence could switch flanks to accommodate further changes in defence.

Jordan Henderson remains unavailable due to a wrist injury, although England otherwise have most of their key players fit. There is also some uncertainty surrounding Jude Bellingham after an incident following the Argentina match, though no official action has yet been confirmed.

Given the criticism surrounding the semi-final performance, Tuchel is expected to field a strong lineup rather than heavily rotating his squad.

Key Factors to Consider

• France have won two of their three previous World Cup third-place playoffs.
• England have lost both of their previous appearances in this fixture.
• Les Bleus benefited from an extra day of recovery compared to the Three Lions.
• William Saliba is expected to miss out, forcing changes in the French defence.
• England must cope without Reece James after his latest injury setback.
• France have won eight of their last nine meetings with England in all competitions.

Conclusion

Neither side will view this fixture as a true consolation for missing out on the World Cup final, but France appear better positioned to finish the tournament on a positive note.

England’s inability to manage knockout matches against elite opponents remains a concern, while defensive injuries and the physical toll of their semi-final defeat may further complicate matters. France, despite their disappointment against Spain, still look the more balanced and proven team.

The Three Lions should remain competitive, but Les Bleus are backed to make their superiority count and secure third place, leaving England with another painful fourth-place finish on the global stage.

Verdict: France win

Best odds: 23/25

Bookmaker: 20bet