Image source: Alamy Stock Photo
Football
Third-place play-off
2026 World Cup
France vs England
Miami, United States
Saturday, 18 July 2026
Kick-off is at 23:00
With France set to take on England in the Third-place play-off at the 2026 World Cup this weekend, Didier Deschamps recently suggested that his side contended with wrongful officiating following their loss against Spain in the tournament’s semi-finals.
France, along with Argentina, were among the favourites to go all the way in the showpiece but were met by a well-drilled Spain in the final four as they suffered a 2-0 loss at the Dallas Stadium on Tuesday.
While France took to the pitch with a top heavy attack through the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola and Kylian Mbappe, the midfield trio of Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo and Rodri dictated matters in Dallas throughout the 90 minutes.
France, who appeared to be disjointed during large parts of the encounter, saw Mikel Oyarzabal’s 22nd minute penalty, and Pedro Porro’s 58th minute effort, separate the two sides on the day, amid Spain outplaying their opponents on the deck.
As France struggled to gain a foothold in the game, Deschamps appeared frustrated on the touchline and questioned match officials on numerous occasions.
Speaking after France’ loss to Spain, Deschamps believed his side were on the end of incorrect calls from the referee, thus questioning the official’s credentials for the high profile encounter.
“There is obviously a lot of disappointment. The players are devastated because we had high ambitions,” Deschamps said.
“Although we have to be realistic and acknowledge that today we were a step below technically against a team that knew what they were doing. It’s primarily our fault.
“Then I ask a question, and I’m not going to answer it: “Is the referee good enough to officiate a World Cup semi-final?
“We’ve had a few of those situations, and I’m not going to answer them. And I’m not saying this because we lost today, but there have been certain situations… often unfavourable to us, too.”
Head-to-head:
Games: 9
France wins: 5
England wins: 3
Draws: 1
2026 World Cup Third-place play-off
Saturday, 18 July
23:00: France vs England
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