Why is there a third-place play-off at the World Cup 2026 as England face France?

ENGLAND face France in tonight’s third-place play-off. The Three Lions were beaten 2-1 by Argentina in the semi-finals after late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez. England play France in the third-place play-off Credit: Getty Kylian Mbappe is chasing the Golden Boot Credit: Getty France were knocked out by Spain 2-0 following strikes from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro. The two losing semi-finalists now go head-to-head in Miami. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Why is there a third-place play-off at the World Cup? The third-place play-off, also known as the “bronze final”, has been a part of the World Cup since the second edition in 1934. It is a game nobody wants to be in – but Fifa have attempted to make it feel worthwhile. Their world rankings take into account the result and it weighs heavier than a friendly win. Where a country is in the rankings can impact Nations League position and qualifying draw for the next World Cup. The third-place play-off is also important for the Golden Boot race. Kylian Mbappe comes into the game as the joint top scorer with Lionel Messi on eight goals. Most read in Sport Harry Kane and Jude Bellingam are level in fourth on six goals. It is also impossible to ignore the financial benefits to having a third-place play-off in the World Cup, with the extra game generating huge revenue via ticket sales and advertising. Does the winner of the third-place play-off get a medal? Yes, the winning side will be presented with bronze medals. Comment now