Mbappe is fighting for the Golden Boot in the third place match against England
According to Soccernews.
Background
Kylian Mbappe, currently the top scorer in the World Cup, has a chance to win the Golden Boot, which could strengthen his status as one of the best players in the world. His rivalry with Lionel Messi and English players such as Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham adds additional tension to the match. In terms of the season, Mbappe could be a key player for France in the coming years.
Why is it important
The match for third place between France and England is important not only for the teams, but also for Kylian Mbappe, who is fighting for the Golden Boot. His performance in this match may affect his future in the national team and the perception of his career by fans. Additionally, this will be the last match under Didier Deschamps, which gives it an additional emotional weight.
Key points
- Mbappe is fighting for the Golden Boot in the third place match against England.
- Kylian Mbappe, one of the most important players of the French national team, will have the opportunity to play in the third place match at the 2026 World Cup against England, which is a chance for him to win the Golden Boot.
- Mbappe motivated by Golden Boot chase ahead of third-place play-off, says Deschamps.
While both teams will be disappointed not to make the final, Mbappe may be particularly determined to maintain his position in Deschamps' team. He currently shares the top scoring spot in the 2026 World Cup with Lionel Messi, having scored eight goals. However, the Argentine has the advantage with four assists while Mbappe has three. England players Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham are also in with a chance of winning the award, having scored six goals and one assist each.
Additionally, Mbappe's total goal tally at the World Cup is 20, which puts him just behind Messi in the all-time scoring charts. Deschamps, asked about Mbappe's participation in the match during the press conference, said: "He is available. There are always reasons to motivate; we analyze what they can do on the pitch. Kylian doesn't need that stimulus, but the fact that he has this individual goal is also justified. He may have other things on his mind. This is not a match for nothing. It's better to finish third than fourth. How many teams have already gone home before the semi-finals? That's 44 of them! We are still here. We have responsibilities to millions. The French. When hereyou come, and I have been here for 25 years, you have an obligation. I'll rotate, yes. Some players can't play and there are other factors that I understand - those will guide my choices."
Saturday's match will also mark the end of Deschamps' 14-year tenure as France coach. His 121 wins are the most in the history of the French national team (D35 L30), and he also holds the record for the most matches at the World Cup as a coach (this will be his 27th match). Only Tele Santana (80% – 8/10) and Lionel Scaloni (79% – 11/14) had a better win rate by managing at least 10 matches in the tournament. Deschamps is also one of three men to win the World Cup as both a player and coach, alongside Mario Zagallo and Franz Beckenbauer, having worn the captain's armband when France triumphed on home soil in 1998. Asked what the last match on the French bench means for him, he said: "I know that the end of the road is on Saturday. No one will cry here, but I know that I will miss the French team. I have had the privilege for 14 years of experiencing magical, but also difficult moments. But life goes on. I am positive by nature, I know that what will come will also be good. This is the most beautiful thing that has happened to me. The coach took 25 years of my life and left trace."
What next
After the third-place match, France and England will have to assess their performances at the 2026 World Cup and plan for the future. For Mbappe, winning the Golden Boot could be crucial for his further career, as well as for his relationship with Deschamps. Both teams can also focus on the upcoming qualifiers for the next tournaments to improve their results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the result of the France - England match?
The match has not taken place yet, so the result is not known.
What are Mbappe's chances of winning the Golden Boot?
Mbappe currently shares the top scoring spot in the 2026 World Cup with Lionel Messi with eight goals.
When will the third place match between France and England take place?
The match will take place on Saturday.
What are France's achievements so far in the third place matches at the World Cup?
France played in the third place match four times, winning against West Germany 6-3 in 1958 and against Belgium 4-2 in 1986, and losing to Poland 3-2 in 1982.
What are the current goalscoring statistics for the 2026 World Cup?
Mbappe and Messi have eight goals each, Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham six goals each.
