The third-place play-off at the 2026 World Cup is inspiring no one. Neither the French players, still stunned by their elimination against Spain, nor the English, beaten by Argentina in the semi-finals, appear enthusiastic. With the match scheduled for Saturday in Miami, both teams seem eager to move on.
Players from Les Bleus and the Three Lions have little desire to contest the play-off. Thomas Tuchel admitted it openly at a press conference. “None of our players or the French players wants to play in the third-place match. They want to play in the final. We gave everything to get there. Everyone plays to win the World Cup, but that is how it is,” the England manager explained.
Disappointed Players Struggle to Refocus
In the French camp, the disappointment remains immense following the 2-0 defeat to Spain. Several players are already thinking about their holidays, although Didier Deschamps is trying to motivate his squad for his final match in charge. “There is a third place to go and secure,” he insisted, stressing the players’ duty to the France shirt and the supporters behind the team.
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Significant rotation is expected against England. Lucas Hernandez and N’Golo Kanté could start, while younger players such as Warren Zaïre-Emery and Rayan Cherki may be given an opportunity to gain experience. Kylian Mbappé could retain some personal motivation as he pursues World Cup scoring records after reaching 20 goals in the competition.
Tuchel has nevertheless promised a professional performance despite England having one fewer recovery day than France. Both teams will therefore play to restore some pride, but the biggest challenge for their coaching staffs will be psychological rather than tactical: convincing disappointed players that finishing third in the world is still worth one final effort.
