France will take on England in the World Cup 2026 bronze final on Saturday, July 18, at Miami Stadium, with kick-off at 10pm BST. Didier Deschamps is expected to make changes to his lineup, but Kylian Mbappe could start as he chases the Golden Boot and potentially becomes the all-time World Cup leading scorer.
Mbappe's Golden Boot Chase
Mbappe, who won the Golden Boot in Qatar four years ago after scoring a hat-trick in the final loss to Argentina, is currently tied with Lionel Messi at the top of the scoring charts. Both players have eight goals in this tournament, but Messi leads on assists (4 to 3). To overtake Messi, Mbappe must register at least two goal involvements in the bronze final, while hoping Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham do not score. Additionally, if Mbappe scores twice, he would become the all-time World Cup leading scorer, though Messi could surpass him again in Sunday's final against Spain.
Team News and Injury Blow
France will be without defender William Saliba, who was forced off in the semi-final loss to Spain with a back injury. Reports indicate the Arsenal star requires surgery and could be sidelined for up to five months. Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix, who has filled in for Saliba twice during the tournament, is expected to start again, potentially ahead of Ibrahima Konate.
Malo Gusto and Theo Hernandez may start at full-back, with Hernandez replacing Lucas Digne after he struggled against Lamine Yamal in the semi-final. N'Golo Kante and Lucas Hernandez are the only outfield players yet to feature in the World Cup, and Kante is an option to start in midfield alongside Manu Kone.
Predicted Lineup and Key Details
Predicted France XI (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Gusto, Upamecano, Lacroix, T.Hernandez; Kante, Kone; Dembele, Olise, Doue; Mbappe.
Injured: Saliba.
Time and date: 10pm BST on Saturday, July 18, 2026. Venue: Miami Stadium.
