England take on France today in the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place playoff, with both nations aiming to end their tournament on a high by securing the bronze medal.
The match is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. ET in Miami and will decide which team finishes third and which settles for fourth place.
Because this is a knockout match, there must be a winner. Here’s what happens if England win, tie after 90 minutes or lose against France.
What Happens If England Beat France?
If England defeat France, the Three Lions will finish third at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and receive the tournament’s bronze medals.
The victory would provide a positive finish after England’s semifinal loss to Argentina and secure the higher prize-money payout awarded to the third-place team.
France would finish fourth.
What Happens If England and France Are Tied?
England and France cannot officially finish the match in a draw.
If the score is level after 90 minutes, the match will proceed to extra time, consisting of two 15-minute periods.
If neither side scores the winner during extra time, the third-place playoff will be decided by a penalty shootout.
A tie after regulation simply extends the match—it does not determine the final standings.
What Happens If England Lose to France?
If England lose to France, they will finish fourth at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
France would secure third place and take home the bronze medals, while England would narrowly miss out on a podium finish.
Despite the disappointment, reaching the semifinals would still mark another deep World Cup run for England.
Can England vs France End in a Draw?
No. The England vs France third-place match cannot end in a draw.
If the teams are tied after regulation, the match will follow this format:
- 90 minutes of regulation time
- 30 minutes of extra time if necessary
- A penalty shootout if the score remains level after 120 minutes
One team will officially finish third, while the other will finish fourth.
Why Are England and France Playing for Third Place?
England and France are competing in the third-place playoff after losing in the semifinals.
England were defeated by Argentina, while France fell to Spain.
The winners of those semifinal matches advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, leaving England and France to battle for third place.
England vs France Match Details
Match: England vs France
Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place playoff
Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Kickoff Time: 5:00 p.m. ET
Location: Miami, Florida
Final Summary
If England beat France, they will finish third and receive the bronze medals.
If the match is tied after 90 minutes, it will continue into extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout.
If England lose, they will finish fourth, while France will claim third place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.