Kylian Mbappé starts as France face England in 2026 World Cup third-place game

Kylian Mbappé will lead France’s attack when Les Bleus face England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place playoff on 18 July.

What’s the fixture and why does it matter?

France and England meet in the third-place match at the 2026 World Cup on Friday, 18 July. The game follows France’s semi-final exit to Argentina on penalties after a 2-2 draw on 15 July. England lost their semi-final 3-1 to Brazil on the same day. A win would give either side a chance to end the tournament on a high note after falling short of the final.

How strong are the projected lineups?

France’s projected XI includes Kylian Mbappé up front, flanked by Ousmane Dembélé and Antoine Griezmann. Aurélien Tchouaméni returns in midfield alongside Eduardo Camavinga. Mike Maignan starts in goal. England’s lineup features Harry Kane alongside Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka, with Jordan Pickford between the posts. Both teams are expected to field strong sides despite the disappointment of missing the final.

What’s at stake for Kylian Mbappé?

A podium finish would cap a strong tournament for Mbappé, who scored four goals in five games before the semi-final. A third-place finish would give him his second World Cup medal after the 2022 runners-up finish. The match also offers Mbappé a chance to add minutes before the club season resumes with Real Madrid in late July. A strong performance could boost his momentum ahead of the 2026-27 season.

What comes next after the third-place game?

The 2026 World Cup concludes on 19 July with the final in New Jersey. France and England will then turn their focus to club duties. Mbappé is expected to rejoin Real Madrid for pre-season training within days. England’s players will return to Premier League clubs, with Kane likely to stay in London for the summer transfer window.