England will take on France in the World Cup third-place play-off on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. Both teams were defeated in the semi-finals: England lost 2-1 to Argentina in Atlanta, Georgia, while France fell 2-0 to Spain in Arlington, Texas.
Date, kick-off time and venue
The match is scheduled for a 10pm BST kick-off. The venue is the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida.
Where to watch England vs France for FREE
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on BBC One, with coverage starting at 9.30pm. Live stream: UK viewers can catch the contest live online via BBC iPlayer app or the channel’s website. Live blog: Follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport’s live blog, featuring expert analysis from Dom Smith at the ground. Free highlights: World Cup highlights are available on FIFA’s official YouTube channel, along with BBC iPlayer app and their websites.
England vs France team news
England manager Thomas Tuchel may rotate his squad, with several players yet to feature in the tournament, including Trevoh Chalobah, Kobbie Mainoo, Dean Henderson, and James Trafford. Jordan Henderson was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament after fracturing his arm in the aftermath of the 3-2 win over Mexico. Declan Rice has been struggling with lower back and hamstring injuries and also battled illness before and during the Norway and Argentina matches. Reece James, who returned in the semi-final, is unlikely to feature due to hamstring issues. Jarell Quansah is available after serving a two-match ban for a red card against Mexico. Fringe players like Eberechi Eze, Ollie Watkins, and Ivan Toney could get minutes.
France boss Didier Deschamps, who will step down after this match, may also experiment. Brice Samba or Robin Risser could start in goal, Chelsea’s Malo Gusto may play at full-back, and William Saliba is out with a back injury, so Maxence Lacroix could start. N’Golo Kante, Warren Zaire-Emery, and Maghnes Akliouche are among those hoping for game time. Jean-Philippe Mateta and Marcus Thuram may also start, with stars like Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola, Desire Doue, and Ousmane Dembele potentially rested.
England vs France prediction
Both sides have deep squads but find themselves in the 'Bronze final'. With France possibly rotated and emotions high amid Deschamps' departure, England could have a chance. The match may not be a classic due to low stakes, but quality remains. Prediction: France to win 2-1.
Head to head (h2h) history and results
England wins: 17, France wins: 10, Draws: 5.
England vs France match odds
Odds via UK betting sites (subject to change). Gambling can be addictive, always play responsibly.
