France vs England World Cup 3rd Place: Odds, Picks & Best Bets

The 2026 World Cup playoff takes place on Saturday between France and England to decide who will win the bronze medal and finish third behind Argentina and Spain.

Let’s take a closer look at this intriguing encounter.

Both nations' egos will be bruised heading into this encounter after failing to make the World Cup final, but this is the next best way to end the tournament on a high and claim a bronze medal. Not only that, but fans in the stadium will want to see their teams perform well one last time before their tournament comes to a close.

France have been excellent throughout the World Cup but came undone against a solid Spain side that head to the final having conceded just one goal all summer. Only Argentina has scored more goals than Didier Deschamps’ side at the 2026 World Cup, which is why it was a huge shock that they drew a blank in the semifinal.

England will be completely heartbroken. Having led against the world champions until the 85th minute, before losing in stoppage time, Thomas Tuchel has taken plenty of criticism from the media and fans.

He will likely want this World Cup to end sooner rather than later after what happened in Atlanta, and the German is reportedly set to make plenty of changes ahead of this clash. So who’s more motivated to get the win?

France vs England Predictions

As mentioned, France had been almost flawless until their semifinal defeat. Six wins from six, including promising displays vs Senegal, Sweden and Norway, all pointed towards the French having enough to win the World Cup.

Sadly, it wasn’t to be, but even if Deschamps rotates his starting XI for this playoff match, he has a serious amount of talent on the bench that arguably could have started more games.

Man City’s Rayan Cherki and PSG’s Desire Doue are expected to feature, while Kylian Mbappe will be desperate to start as he may only need one more goal to guarantee the Golden Boot.

England, however, are lacking the talent in reserve that the French have at their disposal. Tuchel will rotate and although Dan Burn has impressed with his heading, he will lack the pace to deal with Mbappe, Doue and co.

France vs England Betting Tips & Best Bets

All odds taken from bet365 Sportsbook at 09:00 CA time on Wednesday, 18 July 2026.

France to win at +100 +100

So, what are the best bets for this match? Both nations may lack the motivation to go all out in this game, but France’s depth makes them a solid selection.

They have scored at least two goals in five of their seven matches and have kept four clean sheets along the way. England haven’t kept a clean sheet since the group stage, conceding in every knockout match against the likes of DR Congo, Mexico and Norway.

France’s reserves may go out with a point to prove and they can win this bronze medal battle at +100 on Saturday.

Kylian Mbappe to score anytime at -120 -120

The other bet in this match worth backing is Kylian Mbappe to score anytime at -120. The Real Madrid star has scored in six of France’s seven matches and is currently tied with Lionel Messi on eight goals to win the Golden Boot.

Spain have kept six clean sheets so far, and might be able to record another. If Messi doesn’t score, Mbappe has the perfect opportunity to win the Golden Boot - and you can be confident he will want to start and aim to finish on at least nine goals - and maybe even 10.