Now that the semifinals have come to a close, football enthusiasts around the globe are preparing for the World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina on July 19th. Luckily, the excruciating wait for Sunday is eased somewhat by the Third-Place playoff match on July 18th. Both France and England lost their previous matches, but that does not mean they are forced back home just yet. Each squad has one additional chance to make an impression on the global stage, so expect a great competition between these two exemplary squads. Read on for our full preview of Saturday’s matchup.

France’s Journey to the Third-Place Playoffs

France earned entrance to the knockout rounds by sweeping Group I with three straight wins and nine total qualification points. The first group match was against Senegal, in which France pulled ahead to a 3-1 victory. The next bout was a 3-0 sweep of Iraq’s underdog lineup. The third and final group stage outing was a 4-1 blowout against Norway.

With that momentum in tow, they started the knockout stage by clearing the Round of 32 with a 3-0 win over Sweden. The Round of 16 was a thrilling 1-0 match against Paraguay. In the quarterfinals, they took out Morocco 2-0. The streak came to an end, however, when France finally fell to Spain 2-0 during the semifinal fixture. That said, the Blues would be foolish to despair here. A Bronze medal finish is still worth fighting for, with benefits such as squad momentum, national legacy, and additional prize money awarded to the podium finishers.

France’s Players to Watch

France has one of the most expensive squads in football, and all that cash translates to uncanny talent. Here are a few players worth watching in the playoff.

Kylian Mbappé (Forward, Real Madrid, 27)

The undisputed captain and talisman for France likely needs no introduction. He is currently tied with Lionel Messi for the Golden Boot with a total of eight goals and three assists throughout the tourney so far. Despite his lack of productivity during the semifinal loss to Spain, his numbers speak for themselves. He is liable to make the most of this extra World Cup match, since the four years of waiting for the next contest is undoubtedly frustrating for him.

Ousmane Dembélé (Forward, Paris Saint-Germain, 29)

As a Ballon d’Or winner and PSG star, Dembélé has been a consistent goal threat so far. He contributed the most during the knockout stages, and likely has another solid game left in him. Ousmane’s main claim to fame is his ability to disrupt opponents with his dribbling skills and pure physicality.

Michael Olise (Midfielder, FC Bayern München, 24)

This incredibly young midfielder has led France with five assists. His outstanding creative vision is a major reason why stars like Mbappé can steamroll the pitch. His passing range is effective at creating chances, and his enthusiastic work ethic ensures he will play hard, even for a bronze medal matchup.

England’s Road to the Third-Place Playoffs

England began their eighth consecutive World Cup as part of Group L. The first match was a fitting 4-2 victory over Croatia. In the second bout, England drew a 0-0 stalemate with Ghana. The Three Lions bounced back with a dominant 2-0 result against Panama. They finished with seven qualification points at the top of Group L.

In the Round of 32, England narrowly defeated Congo DR 2-1. The Round of 16 was a thrilling 3-2 victory over Mexico in their home turf of Estadio Azteca. In the quarterfinal, they barely eked out a 2-1 victory over Norway. England lost their last bit of steam during the semifinal, where they lost 2-1 against Argentina. However, just like France, the Three Lions have plenty of motivation to give it their all during the bronze medal match.

England Players to Watch

There are many good reasons why England made it as far as they did. Here are some key contributors to the squad’s success.

Harry Kane (Forward, FC Bayern München, 32)

Kane is the captain and talisman of the squad, having scored the most goals for England throughout the event. Coach Thomas Tuchel’s high-intensity, direct style meshes well with Kane’s extensive experience. He is more than capable of staying composed and getting the job done.

Declan Rice (Midfielder, Arsenal, 27)

Rice is England’s midfield anchor, providing both a strong physical presence and defensive stability to the roster. He’s earned his role as vice-captain, and many consider him a worthy eventual successor to Harry Kane.

Jude Bellingham (Midfield, Real Madrid, 23)

Bellingham is England’s primary engine due to his vision, passing range, and ability to control tempo. He is a crucial part of breaking down the opponent’s defense over the course of a match. Jude has immense knockout round experience, so he is a key leader during high-pressure situations.

France vs England: Match Preview

The upcoming Third Place playoff match between France and England is scheduled for Saturday, July 18, at 5:00 PM ET. The specified venue is Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. France is the overwhelming favorite to win this match according to oddsmakers. The team had the highest chance of walking away with the bronze medal before the tournament began. However, the rough showing against Spain means England may have more of a shot than many pundits are expecting. Regardless of who wins, Saturday’s match will be an excellent way for fans to pass the time before the true final.