Why is Harry Kane benched for France vs England FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place playoff?

Harry Kane is England’s all-time top scorer in FIFA World Cup history with 14 goals.

After suffering a disappointing 2-1 defeat against defending champions Argentina in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 earlier this year, the Three Lions are set to face France in the third-place playoff at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

Anthony Gordon gave the Three Lions the lead in the 55th minute, courtesy of an assist from Morgan Rogers. However, Thomas Tuchel later adopted a defensive approach before eventually conceding two goals in the dying minutes of the game.

Despite the defeat, one player who has been crucial to England’s deep run in the World Cup was Harry Kane. However, the Bayern Munich forward is not in the starting line-up for the third-place game, leaving some fans wondering about the reason for the 32-year-old midfielder’s absence.

Also Read: England starting lineup vs France confirmed as Morgan Rogers named for FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place match

Why is Harry Kane not starting?

Thomas Tuchel has decided to bench Harry Kane for the third-place play-off against France to give Toney a start. The German tactician has already been open about not liking the concept of the third-place fixture, saying that no teams want to play it.

Harry Kane has been a key player for the Three Lions, as he scored six goals in seven matches. However, he failed to secure a single shot at the target during the 1966 Champions’ semifinal fixture against Argentina.

The Bayern Munich attacker also played the whole game ahead of the defending champions, where he also helped a lot in defence, especially in the second half. Additionally, the game would also serve the purpose of young players getting an opportunity to play in the FIFA World Cup.

Instead of the former Tottenham Hotspur attacker, Ivan Toney will stay on the front line for the Three Lions. Toney, who plays in the Saudi Pro League, made a short cameo against Argentina in the last game.

Meanwhile, Morgan Rogers and Eberechi Eze will play in the midfield, while Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka will play on the wings. England’s other top scorer, Jude Bellingham, who netted six goals, has also been rested for the third-place playoff against two-time champions France.

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