The FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place play-off between England and France will be played at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Saturday, July 18, a day before the final. Both teams are coming into this match after heartbreak in the semifinals. France, who were the pre-tournament favorites, were shut out 2-0 by Spain, while England lost 2-1 to defending champions Argentina after conceding two goals in the last 10 minutes. Both sides had to play this match for the extra prize money and end their World Cup with the win. This match brings together some of the best talent. In this match, both teams have the best player in their squad, like France has Mbappe and Dembele and England has Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham.
Here is the list of players:
| Rank | Player | Team | Why to Watch |
| 1 | Kylian Mbappe | France | Tied for the tournament’s top scorer and still chasing the Golden Boot. |
| 2 | Jude Bellingham | England | England’s midfield engine, capable of scoring and creating from deep. |
| 3 | Harry Kane | England | The captain will be hungry for goals to close out his World Cup on a high. |
| 4 | Michael Olise | France | One of France’s most creative players, always looking to unlock defenses. |
| 5 | Bradley Barcola | France | Fast, direct, and a constant threat down the wing, whether starting or off the bench. |
Kylian Mbappe (France)
Kylian Mbappe is the best player on France’s team. He is tied with Messi for the most goals and assists. Both had 8 goals and 3 assists in this FIFA World Cup 2026. In the last match, Mbappe did not perform well, but that does not mean he is out of form; he is the player who can change the game anytime with his own. Against England, if he wants to win the Golden Boot, he has to perform in this match.
Jude Bellingham (England)
Jude Bellingham is the star player of England this World Cup. He is one of the best midfielders in the world. He does a bit of everything, driving forward to midfield, creating chances, and dribbling so well in the field. If England is to control this match, Bellingham has to perform well in this match.
Harry Kane (England)
The captain of England and the highest goal scorer ever for the nation. Also, this is his last World Cup. He had six goals in the World Cup. He did not perform well in the semi-final; he was not able to score any goals in the semi-final. Against France, he will look forward and give his best in his last World Cup match. A big performance from kane could be the difference in this game.
Michael Olise (France)
Michael Olise has been one of France’s most talking player in this World Cup. His sense of vision and ability to find pockets of space allow him to unlock defenses that otherwise sit deep and compact. He didn’t have his best game against Spain in the semi-final but his quality on the ball means he’s always a threat. Olise’s passing and movement in the final third could be crucial in creating chances for Mbappe and the rest of France’s attack in the clash against England.
Bradley Barcola (France)
Bradley Barcola has been a headache for defenders in this tournament. He causes problems whether he starts or comes on as a substitute. His speed and direct running give France another way to hurt teams on the counter-attack. Barcola is not afraid to take on defenders one-on-one. His energy brings a level to Frances attack, alongside Mbappé and Olise. Against an England team that just played a tough semifinal Barcolas freshness and speed could make a big difference.
Also Read: Argentina vs Spain FIFA World Cup 2026: Top 5 Players To Watch In This Big Clash
