France and England will compete for World Cup bronze in the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place playoff, with both teams aiming to end their campaigns on a high after painful semifinal defeats. France lost 2-0 to Spain despite creating several chances, while England fell 2-1 to defending champions Argentina after giving up a second-half lead.

Although the match does not carry the prestige of the final, both nations will be eager to finish among the tournament’s top three. France are aiming to secure third place for the second time in their history, while England are looking to claim the bronze medal for the first time since finishing fourth at the 2018 World Cup.

The tournament statistics show just how closely matched these teams are. France have won five of their seven matches, scored 16 goals and conceded six, while England have also claimed five wins, scoring 15 and conceding only five. Both sides have displayed strong attacking quality, led by Kylian Mbappé for France and Harry Kane for England. Young talents Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Eduardo Camavinga and Michael Olise are also expected to play important roles.

Possible starting XIs

France (4-3-3): Mike Maignan; Jules Koundé, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Theo Hernández; Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, Adrien Rabiot; Michael Olise, Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé.

England (4-2-3-1): Jordan Pickford; Trent Alexander-Arnold, John Stones, Marc Guéhi, Luke Shaw; Declan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo; Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden; Harry Kane.

With two of international football’s biggest rivals meeting, supporters can expect an entertaining encounter filled with attacking intent as both teams chase a consolation medal to conclude their World Cup journeys.