France face England today in the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place playoff, with both teams looking to finish the tournament on the podium.
The match is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. ET in Miami and will determine which nation finishes third and which finishes fourth at the World Cup.
Because this is a knockout match, there must be a winner. Here is what happens if France win, tie after 90 minutes or lose against England.
What Happens If France Beat England?
If France defeat England, Les Bleus will finish third at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and receive the tournament’s bronze medals.
A victory would allow France to end their World Cup campaign on a positive note after losing to Spain in the semifinals.
France would also receive the higher prize-money payment awarded to the third-place finisher, while England would finish fourth.
What Happens If France and England Are Tied?
France and England cannot officially finish the match in a draw.
If the score is tied after the opening 90 minutes, the third-place playoff will continue into extra time.
Extra time consists of two 15-minute periods. If the teams are still level after 120 minutes, the winner will be decided by a penalty shootout.
Therefore, a tie after regulation does not eliminate France or confirm their final position. France would still have an opportunity to claim third place during extra time or penalties.
What Happens If France Lose to England?
If France lose to England, they will finish fourth at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
England would claim third place and the bronze medals, while France would end the tournament outside the top three.
A fourth-place finish would still represent a deep World Cup run for France, but the team would miss the opportunity to close the competition with a victory.
Can France vs England End in a Draw?
No. The France vs England third-place match cannot end in a draw.
The match will follow this format:
- 90 minutes of regulation time
- 30 minutes of extra time if the score is tied
- A penalty shootout if the score remains level
One team will be officially declared the winner and finish third.
Why Are France and England Playing for Third Place?
France and England reached the third-place playoff after losing their respective World Cup semifinal matches.
France were eliminated by Spain, while England were defeated by Argentina.
The semifinal winners advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, while the losing teams moved into the bronze-medal match.
France vs England Match Details
Match: France vs England
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 France beat England, they will finish third and receive bronze medals.
If the score is tied after 90 minutes, the match will move to extra time and potentially a penalty shootout.
If France lose, they will finish fourth, while England will claim third place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.