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>France vs England Predictions, Picks & Odds – 18/07/2026
World Cup · 3rd Place FinalFrance vs England – Best bets of the match
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France enter this third-place final riding four consecutive victories before their semi-final loss to Spain, where Deschamps' side drew a blank in attack. That goalless display exposed serious creative issues in midfield, with Ousmane Dembélé largely anonymous and the team unable to retain possession. This match represents Deschamps' farewell as manager, adding emotional weight. Kylian Mbappé, level on eight goals in the Golden Boot race, will be desperate to find the net one final time.
England's semi-final defeat to Argentina left Harry Kane and the squad visibly devastated, with Thomas Tuchel's men losing control of midfield for long stretches. Kane and Jude Bellingham struggled to find pockets of space against an organised Argentine backline. Despite four wins preceding that loss, England's tournament has been marked by defensive vulnerability, conceding ten goals across the competition. Victory here would deliver their best World Cup finish since lifting the trophy in 1966.
France's defensive record throughout the tournament is the cornerstone of this prediction. Les Bleus have conceded just four goals across their campaign, while England have shipped ten. That disparity matters enormously in a fixture where both sides will carry emotional fatigue from semi-final heartbreak. Backing the home win at 1.99 reflects the expectation that France's rearguard solidity will prove decisive against an England attack that struggled for space against Argentina.
The under 2.5 goals market at 2.42 deserves serious consideration. France failed to score entirely in their semi-final, exposing creative problems in midfield that Thierry Henry himself highlighted. England, meanwhile, saw Kane and Bellingham starved of service against Argentina. Third-place finals historically produce cautious, low-energy contests, and both teams have reasons to prioritise defensive structure over adventurous football in Deschamps' farewell match.
Both teams to score at 1.50 remains a viable secondary selection despite the low-scoring outlook. Mbappé, level with Messi on eight goals, will attack this match with ferocious intent knowing it is his final chance to claim the Golden Boot outright. England, desperate to secure their best World Cup finish since 1966, will not sit back passively. The motivation on both sides should produce at least one goal apiece.
Trends to Know about France vs England
- France conceded only 4 tournament goals
- England shipped 10 goals this tournament
- Mbappé chasing Golden Boot with 8 goals
Form & Statistics: France vs England
France
Recent form
Season statistics (5)
England
Recent form
Season statistics (5)
France vs England: Head-to-Head
Average statistics (recent meetings)
How to Watch France vs England Match?
What time is France vs England?
France vs England kicks off at 22:00 BST on Saturday, 18 July 2026, at Miami Stadium.
Where is France vs England being played?
This World Cup third-place final will be played at Miami Stadium in Miami, United States.
How Can I Watch France vs England on TV and Live Stream?
This match will be available on major broadcast networks; check local listings for coverage in your region.