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Why you should care about the World Cup third-place play-off: Golden Boot race, history on the line, and fresh faces

England's World Cup isn't over yet. After semi-final defeat to Argentina, they face France in the third-place play-off. Beyond pride, there's plenty a...

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Why you should care about the World Cup third-place play-off: Golden Boot race, history on the line, and fresh faces
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England's World Cup semi-final heartbreak against Argentina means Thomas Tuchel's side have one more match to play – the third-place play-off against France on Saturday. While it might feel like a consolation prize, there are several compelling reasons to tune in.

1. The Golden Boot race

Both France captain Kylian Mbappe and Argentina's Lionel Messi sit on eight goals, with Messi ahead on assists. Goals in the third-place match count, so Mbappe can steal the lead before Messi plays the final. Meanwhile, England's Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham are just two behind – a hat-trick could yet give an English winner.

2. England's best World Cup finish since 1966

Victory would secure third place, marking England's best performance in 60 years. Previous third-place play-offs ended in defeat: to Italy in 1990 and Belgium in 2018.

3. A chance for underused players

With the gruelling schedule, Thomas Tuchel could rotate. Kobbie Mainoo might make his World Cup debut, while Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney could see more minutes.

How to watch

The match kicks off at 22:00 BST on Saturday and is live on BBC TV.

Source: BBC Sport

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