As the FIFA World Cup 2026 is coming to an end, there is still one last fight left, with France locking horns with England in the third-place playoff match.
Even though both countries would have preferred to be gearing up for the World Cup final, this match still means a lot, with pride, momentum, and history on the line.
France will be looking for another podium finish after their semi-final defeat, while England will aim for their best World Cup result in 60 years. This match is also expected to see Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham battle it out on the pitch once more.
France vs England Preview
France came to the tournament as one of the leading contenders, a fact that was reflected in their performance throughout the competition. Kylian Mbappe, who already proved himself as the leading scorer in the championship, was supported by Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele until France reached the semi-final stage.
Kylian Mbappe will be leading the French attack again as he hopes to conclude another great World Cup edition with another goal to his credit, while Jude Bellingham continues to become a team leader in the English midfield, having demonstrated several great games.
England boss Thomas Tuchel insisted his players remain fully motivated despite missing out on the final.
“It’s a chance to have the best result in 60 years for England. It is a big game against one of the very best teams in the world. Mentality is not something you switch on and switch off. It’s a moment to show what we are made of.”
France coach Didier Deschamps also stressed the importance of approaching the game with complete professionalism.
“This is not a friendly match, and it’s not the game we would have preferred to be playing, but it’s there. There is a third place to go and get, and it is my duty, together with my staff, and the players have that duty as well, to do everything we can to achieve that final objective.”
With stats, form, and probable line-ups in mind, we have prepared a combined starting XI for this exciting third-place playoff.
When And Where To France vs England Tonight?
Match: France vs England
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Third-Place Playoff
Date: July 18 (IST)
Kick-off Time: 1:30 AM IST
Fans can watch the match through the official FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcasters in their respective regions.
Win Probability
France: 46%
England: 31%
Draw (90 Minutes): 23%
France vs England Prediction
Both managers are expected to rotate their squads while still fielding strong line-ups. France’s attacking depth could prove decisive, but England possesses enough quality to make this a closely fought encounter.
France vs England Predicted Score: France 2-1 England
France vs England Combined Predicted XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan (France)
Right Back: Malo Gusto (France)
Centre Back: John Stones (England)
Centre Back: Ibrahima Konate (France)
Left Back: Lucas Hernández (France)
Defensive Midfielder: N’Golo Kante (France)
Central Midfielder: Jude Bellingham (England)
Right Winger: Rayan Cherki (France)
Attacking Midfielder: Morgan Rogers (England)
Left Winger: Kylian Mbappe (France)
Centre Forward:Harry Kane (England)
Reason Behind The Choices In Combined XI
Mike Maignan (France) – France’s dependable goalkeeper earns the spot with his outstanding reflexes and composure under pressure.
Malo Gusto (France) – The Chelsea full-back offers pace, energy and attacking quality from the right side.
John Stones (England) – England’s experienced defender continues to impress with his calmness on the ball and positional awareness.
Ibrahima Konate (France) – Konate provides strength, recovery pace and aerial dominance at the heart of the defence.
Lucas Hernandez (France) – His versatility, defensive discipline and experience make him the preferred option at left-back.
N’Golo Kante (France) – The veteran midfielder remains one of the world’s finest ball winners with his endless energy and reading of the game.
Jude Bellingham (England) – England’s standout performer combines creativity, goals and leadership from midfield.
Rayan Cherki (France) – The exciting youngster adds flair, creativity and unpredictability on the right wing.
Morgan Rogers (England) – Rogers earns his place after an impressive tournament, bringing pace, direct running and attacking intelligence.
Kylian Mbappe (France) – France’s captain remains the biggest attacking threat on the pitch with his pace, movement and clinical finishing.
Harry Kane (England) – England’s all-time leading scorer leads the attack thanks to his experience, link-up play and ruthless finishing.