England predicted lineup vs France for FIFA World Cup 2026 third place play-off clash

The two nations will meet in the FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place playoff on July 18.

England are one step away from clinching a podium finish in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026. They prepare to take on France in the third-place playoff at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida on Saturday night.

Thomas Tuchel’s side failed to reach the showpiece event after a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to defending champions Argentina. Meanwhile, France lost 2-0 to Spain in their semi-final fixture.

The Three Lions are expected to retain the 4-2-3-1 formation used throughout the knockout stage. Tuchel is unlikely to make wholesale changes despite his side failing to beat La Albiceleste in their previous match.

Also Read: Jude Bellingham reacts to defeat against Argentina

Who will be expected in England’s starting lineup?

Pickford is expected to continue between the posts after starting every match for the Three Lions at the ongoing World Cup. His shot-stopping and distribution remain key components of Tuchel’s system.

Djed Spence is expected to slot in at left-back following another solid display against Argentina. John Stones and Marc Guehi should continue as the preferred centre-back pairing. Meanwhile, Reece James is likely to start at right-back.

Declan Rice is set to anchor his side’s midfield once again. Elliot Anderson is expected to partner him in the double pivot after retaining Tuchel’s trust during the knockout phase. The duo will be tasked with limiting the influence of France’s midfield while protecting the back line.

Morgan Rogers is expected to start on the right flank, with Anthony Gordon operating from the left. Jude Bellingham should continue in the No. 10 role after scoring both of the Three Lions’ goals in the quarterfinal victory over Norway. He will be taking his confidence into the third-place playoff.

Harry Kane is expected to lead the English attack. The captain has started every World Cup 2026 match under Tuchel. He remains his nation’s primary goalscoring threat heading into the clash against Les Bleus.

England predicted lineup vs France

England predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Jordan Pickford (GK); Kyle Walker, Ezri Konsa, Dan Burn, Lewis Hall; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson; Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon; Harry Kane.

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