France Still Has One More Chance at FIFA World Cup 2026 Despite Semi-Final Exit

Miami: France’s dream of winning the FIFA World Cup 2026 came to an end after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Spain in the first semi-final. However, the French team is not yet finished with the tournament, as it will still have the opportunity to compete for third place.

Spain secured its place in the World Cup final for the first time in 16 years with a dominant performance against France. Despite entering the match as one of the tournament favourites, France failed to score and could not match Spain’s clinical display.

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Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty. The advantage was doubled in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, sealing a comfortable 2-0 victory and booking Spain’s place in the championship match.

France will now face the loser of the England vs Argentina semi-final in the third-place playoff, scheduled for Saturday, July 18, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The match will begin at 12:30 AM IST (Sunday).

The winner of the England vs Argentina semi-final will advance to face Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final, which will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, at 12:30 AM IST on Monday.

For France, this will be its fourth appearance in a FIFA World Cup third-place playoff. The French team previously finished third in 1958 and 1986, and will now look to add another podium finish to its World Cup history.

Although France’s title hopes have ended, securing third place would allow the team to finish the tournament on a positive note.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule

Match | Date & Time (IST) | Venue
Third-Place Playoff: France vs Loser of England/Argentina | July 19, 12:30 AM | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida
Final: Spain vs Winner of England/Argentina | July 20, 12:30 AM | MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

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