France, England Eye World Cup Bronze After Heartbreak

France and England will meet in Saturday's FIFA World Cup third-place playoff, with both sides aiming to finish the tournament on a positive note after suffering heartbreaking semifinal defeats.

Neither team expected to be competing for the bronze medal. France entered the tournament as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, while England hoped to win their first World Cup title since 1966. Instead, both fell short of Sunday's final, which will feature Argentina and Spain.

France defender Ibrahima Konaté admitted the disappointment within the squad but stressed the importance of ending the campaign with a victory.

"None of us wanted to play for third place," Konaté said. "But we have to approach it professionally. France and England have a great football history, and we're looking forward to the match."

Mbappé Chasing Golden Boot

France captain Kylian Mbappé remains in contention for the tournament's Golden Boot.

The forward has scored eight goals, level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who currently leads the race on the tiebreaker with four assists to Mbappé's three. England's Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham remain outside contenders with six goals each.

France coach Didier Deschamps confirmed Mbappé is fit after training on Friday but said he is likely to rotate several players. England manager Thomas Tuchel also indicated changes to his starting lineup.

"We have responsibilities," Deschamps said. "Our players, coaches and staff must represent France with pride and respect for our supporters."

Deschamps' Final Match

Saturday's match will be Didier Deschamps' final game in charge of France, ending a remarkable 14-year tenure.

Konaté said the squad is determined to give their long-serving coach a winning farewell.

"He has given so much to French football," Konaté said. "There have been difficult moments, but he has also brought tremendous success and happiness."

Deschamps guided France to the 2018 World Cup title and the 2022 final, where they lost to Argentina on penalties. He also led the team to the UEFA Euro 2016 final, cementing his place among the country's most successful coaches.

"This is my final match with the national team," Deschamps said. "Representing France has been the greatest honour of my career."

England Seeking Positive Finish

England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged that his players had hoped to reach the final but said the third-place match still carries significance.

"No one wanted to be playing this match," Tuchel said. "But it's still a World Cup game and an opportunity to achieve England's best tournament finish in decades."

Tuchel also reflected on England's semifinal defeat to Argentina, admitting his side became too defensive after taking the lead before conceding twice late in the match.

Despite criticism of his tactical decisions, the German coach defended his approach.

"If someone has to take responsibility," Tuchel said, "I'll take it."