France, England Face Off for World Cup Third Place Amidst Personal Milestones

France and England face off in the World Cup third-place playoff on Saturday, a match neither team likely envisioned after falling short in the semifinals. France's bid for a third consecutive final ended with a 2-0 defeat to Spain, while England suffered their own heartbreak, losing 2-1 to Argentina.

With both squads physically and emotionally drained, the bronze-medal game could feel like an unwanted consolation. England coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the sentiment, stating, "None of these players, none of the French players want to play this match. They want to play in the final. We gave everything to be in the final."

However, the match holds significance for individuals. It will be Didier Deschamps' final game in charge of Les Bleus after a 14-year tenure that included a World Cup title in 2018 and a final appearance four years later. His players have an opportunity to send off the coach who established France as a global football powerhouse.

For Kylian Mbappe, the game presents a chance to achieve individual milestones. The French captain has scored eight goals in this tournament, bringing his World Cup total to 20. He is in contention for the Golden Boot, currently trailing Lionel Messi by one goal, and is within reach of Messi's all-time tournament record of 21 goals. With less collective pressure, this match could be another landmark moment in Mbappe's already stellar career. England's Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham also have outside chances for the Golden Boot with six goals each, provided they play.

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None of these players, none of the French players want to play this match. They want to play in the final. We gave everything to be in the final.