France XI vs England: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup, injury latest for World Cup bronze final
France vs England: Complete Team News and Predicted Lineup for World Cup Bronze Final
France XI vs England - Didier Deschamps is anticipated to implement several tactical adjustments as France prepares to face England in the highly anticipated bronze final match. While the French manager looks to refresh his squad, Kylian Mbappe remains a strong candidate to begin from the starting eleven, driven by his ambitions to secure the World Cup 2026 Golden Boot trophy.
The Golden Boot Race Intensifies
The French superstar captured this prestigious individual honor four years prior during the Qatar tournament, where he delivered a spectacular hat-trick performance in the championship match against Argentina. Currently, Mbappe finds himself level with Lionel Messi at the summit of the scoring charts, with both strikers having netted eight goals throughout this World Cup campaign.
However, the Argentine legend maintains a slight advantage due to his superior assist tally. Messi has contributed four assists compared to Mbappe's three, meaning the French forward must achieve at least two goal involvements during the Miami fixture on Saturday to overtake his rival. Additionally, Mbappe will need to hope that England's Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham fail to find the back of the net, as their scoring could further complicate the race.
Beyond the Golden Boot implications, another compelling motivation awaits Mbappe. Scoring two goals in this bronze final would elevate him to the position of all-time World Cup leading goalscorer. This achievement would be particularly significant, though potentially temporary, as Messi could reclaim the record if he scores in the World Cup final against Spain on Sunday.
Injury Updates and Squad Changes
France will definitely be missing defender William Saliba for this crucial encounter. The Arsenal player was compelled to leave the pitch during the semi-final defeat to Spain after suffering a back injury. According to recent reports, the English club's star requires surgical intervention and may be sidelined for as long as five months.
Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix has proven himself as an capable replacement for Saliba, featuring twice during the tournament. The Palace defender is expected to receive another opportunity, potentially earning preference over Ibrahima Konate for this match.
In the full-back positions, Malo Gusto and Theo Hernandez are poised to start. Hernandez's selection comes after he replaces Lucas Digne, who experienced difficulties containing Lamine Yamal during the Spain encounter. This tactical shift aims to strengthen France's defensive stability on the right flank.
Midfield Options and Predicted Formation
Regarding midfield selections, N'Golo Kante and Lucas Hernandez represent the only outfield players in the France squad who have yet to make an appearance at this year's World Cup. Kante emerges as a viable candidate to begin in the center of midfield, potentially partnering with Manu Kone in a dynamic duo.
The predicted France XI for this bronze final clash follows a 4-2-3-1 formation: Maignan; Gusto, Upamecano, Lacroix, T.Hernandez; Kante, Kone; Dembele, Olise, Doue; Mbappe.
Match Details: The fixture will take place at 10pm BST on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in Miami.
This bronze final promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams eager to conclude their World Cup campaigns on a positive note. For France, the match offers multiple opportunities for individual recognition while securing third place in the tournament standings.