France and England prepare for World Cup game 'nobody wants to be in'

Neither France nor England relishes playing for third place in the World Cup, a match neither team wanted after falling short of their ultimate goal in the semifinals. France defender Ibrahima Konate stated, "None of us wanted to play in this game for third place," but acknowledged, "we don't have a choice to play."

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None of us wanted to play in this game for third place. But we don't have a choice to play.

Despite the disappointment, the match presents opportunities. For England, it's a chance to secure their best World Cup finish in over 50 years, a prospect coach Thomas Tuchel highlighted. "It is an official World Cup game. It's a chance to have the best result in 60 years for England," he said. The game also remains significant for French star Kylian Mbappé, who is tied with Lionel Messi for the Golden Boot award, with three assists to Messi's four.

France coach Didier Deschamps confirmed Mbappé is available but indicated changes to the lineup, a sentiment echoed by Tuchel for England. Deschamps emphasized the team's responsibility. "We have duties. I have duties, my staff has duties and so do the players. We have a responsibility to wear this jersey for all the French people who are cheering for us," he said. This match also marks Deschamps' final game after 14 years leading the squad, with players like Konate eager to win for their coach.

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Nobody wants to be, tomorrow, in this game. All of these four teams wanted to be in New York (at the final). But it is an official World Cup game. It's a chance to have the best result in 60 years for England.

France won the World Cup in 2018 under Deschamps and lost the 2022 final on penalties. The team's semifinal loss this week was attributed to tactical shortcomings. The third-place match, while a consolation, carries a sense of duty and a final opportunity to honor their long-serving coach.

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We have duties. I have duties, my staff has duties and so do the players. We have a responsibility to wear this jersey for all the French people who are cheering for us.