England may have lost to Argentina in heartbreaking fashion in their World Cup semi-final, but they are not out of the tournament just yet. Thomas Tuchel‘s team are back in action on Saturday when they take on France in Miami for the questionable distinction of finishing third.
France suffered their own hugely disappointing defeat at the hands of Spain, who will meet Argentina in Sunday’s final in New Jersey.
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The third-place play-off (or bronze match) does it at least offer Tuchel a chance to give some playing time to those players on the fringes of the England squad. Goalkeepers Dean Henderson and James Trafford, defender Trevoh Chalobah and midfielder Kobbie Mainoo have not played a minute at the World Cup, while forwards Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins have barely featured.
It could also be an entertaining match. The third-place play-off averages 3.8 goals per game compared to 2.7 in the final itself.
Here is everything you need to know about the third-place play-off:
When is France vs England?
France’s third-place play-off with England kicks off at 10pm BST on Saturday 18 July at the Miami Stadium.
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How can I watch it?
Viewers in the UK will be able to watch the match on BBC One with coverage starting at 9:30pm. It can also be streamed on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport Website.
Team news
France are without William Saliba due to a back injury sustained in the semi-final – Maxence Lacroix will likely deputise again. Back-up keeper Brice Samba is also absent.
For England, there are doubts over Reece James’ fitness again after he was withdrawn following treatment against Argentina, while Jordan Henderson is also out with his broken wrist. Jarell Quansah is available again after his two-match suspension, while Tuchel will likely give those who haven’t played any minutes a World Cup run-out – like Mainoo and Chalobah. Jude Bellingham may wind up with a suspension for slapping Valentin Barco.
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Predicted line-ups
France XI: Maignan; Kounde, Konate, Lacroix, T. Hernandez; Kone, Zaire-Emery; Cherki, Olise, Doue; Mbappe.
England XI: Pickford; Spence, Chalobah, Guehi, O’Reilly; Rice, Mainoo; Madueke, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.