France face England at Miami Stadium on Saturday evening in the World Cup third-place play-off, Didier Deschamps’ final match as manager after 14 years in charge.
Deschamps announced before the tournament that this World Cup would be his last as France manager. The 2–0 defeat to Spain was not the ending he wanted. A win here at least delivers a bronze medal — France’s third consecutive World Cup podium finish — and the chance to send Deschamps out with a victory. Kylian Mbappe arrives level on eight goals with Messi in the Golden Boot standings, trailing on the assists tiebreaker by one. Every goal here matters.
France team news
William Saliba will not play. The Arsenal centre-back was forced off against Spain before half-time with the back problem that has followed him across the second half of this tournament.
Maxence Lacroix of Crystal Palace, who replaced him in Arlington, is expected to start alongside Ibrahima Konaté. Jules Koundé continues at right back. Theo Hernandez replaces Lucas Digne at left back, a change prompted by the difficulties Digne encountered against Yamal in the semi-final.
Deschamps rotates in midfield. Warren Zaïre-Emery of PSG comes in alongside Manu Koné, giving the departing manager the opportunity to rest Adrien Rabiot. In attack, Rayan Cherki earns his first World Cup start — the extremely skilled Man City playmaker has been on the periphery throughout the tournament.
Désiré Doué is expected to start alongside Michael Olise. Kylian Mbappe starts, his motivation sharpened by the Golden Boot race — he is level on eight goals with Messi but trails on the assists tiebreaker and goals here count. Mike Maignan continues in goal.
France predicted lineup
France possible starting XI (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Kounde, Konate, Lacroix, T. Hernandez; Kone, Zaire-Emery; Cherki, Olise, Doue; Mbappe
When will the match kick off?
The FIFA World Cup third-place play-off kicks off at 22:00 BST on Saturday, 18 July 2026.
How to watch France vs England?
The match will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK.
Read more – France vs England – Match preview and team news
See Also- Iconic Performances: Franco Baresi’s display of enduring fortitude in the 1994 World Cup final
Follow the Football Faithful on Social Media:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok
Gary Neville proven right after England prediction came true
World Cup Golden Boot 2026: Who will take the trophy?
Every third-place play-off winner in FIFA World Cup history
Most Popular
Salah-Besiktas agreement claim denied by club and agent
Gary Neville proven right after England prediction came true
Arsenal sign teenage defender Upson from rivals Spurs
Palhinha expected back at Bayern as Villa links cooled
Related Posts
Pardew unsure of Evans future amid transfer speculation
A new name in the frame to sign Daniel Sturridge
The 10 football clubs with the most trophies won
The Champions League stats that show why Haaland and Mbappé are at the top of the game right now
Source: The Football Faithful
