Who needs bronze? England and France have different moods

Ahead of the World Cup third-place play-off, contrasting moods prevail in the England and France camps. While the French view this match as an obligation, Thomas Tuchel's charges could step onto the pitch for their best result in 60 years.

However, there is a hidden motivation for France: this will be Didier Deschamps' final match as head coach of the national team.

The French are reluctant to play for bronze

France lost 0-2 to Spain in the semi-finals, exiting the race for the title. Now the team will face England in Miami for third place. England, meanwhile, lost 1-2 to Argentina in their semi-final.

Deschamps spoke openly about the bronze match, admitting it is not a fixture either team wanted to participate in.

“It’s not a game we prefer to play, but it exists.”

Defender Ibrahima Konaté expressed a similar sentiment. He stated that the players' goal was not third place, but now they have no other choice.

Unexpected motivation for France

The French players' statements give the impression that they lack enthusiasm. However, Konaté also said the team will try to win to provide Deschamps with a worthy farewell gift.

This match will be Deschamps' last in charge of the French national team. Therefore, a bronze medal could become an opportunity for the French to see their coach off with a victory.

England close to a result awaited since 1966

Tuchel also initially called the third-place play-off a match the players do not want. Nevertheless, he emphasized that England must respond appropriately after the painful semi-final defeat.

If England secures the bronze medal, it will be the team's best World Cup result since the 1966 title. Additionally, the English could finish a World Cup held outside Britain in third place for the first time in history.

In this regard, the motivation of Tuchel's side seems higher than that of the French. However, the mental blow from the semi-final, fatigue, and potential squad changes could affect the pace of the game.

Is a third-place play-off necessary?

The bronze match remains a tradition at the World Cup. However, the necessity of such a fixture is constantly debated in football.

On one hand, it allows teams defeated in the semi-finals to end the tournament with a win, gives opportunities to fringe players, and determines the official third-place finisher.

On the other hand, demanding another match from players who have lost their main goal increases the risk of injury and fatigue. In the European Championship, the last third-place play-off was held in 1980, after which UEFA abandoned the match.

Who will show more desire on the pitch?

On paper, England's opportunity to achieve a historic result seems like a stronger motivation. France, meanwhile, will fight to see off their coach with a win.

Therefore, the “match no one wants” could unexpectedly turn into a highly principled battle. The bronze final sometimes turns out to be a test of character rather than a consolation match.

Do you think a separate third-place play-off is necessary at the World Cup?