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Bukayo Saka starts for England in World Cup third-place match against France

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 18, 2026, 8:50 PM

Last updated Jul 18, 2026

Bukayo Saka starts for England in World Cup third-place match against France

Summary

Bukayo Saka has been named in the starting lineup for England against France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place play-off, having not played in the semi-final loss to Argentina. His Achilles issue had impacted his tournament participation, limiting his starts. Head coach Thomas Tuchel has made seven changes to the squad since the last match, with Saka among the key changes, along with Dean Henderson starting in goal and Ivan Toney replacing Harry Kane as the striker. England lost to Argentina after initially leading, raising questions about Saka's absence in that match.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Saka missed the semi-final due to an Achilles problem.
•Tuchel has made seven lineup changes from the semi-final.
•Dean Henderson replaces Jordan Pickford as goalkeeper.
•Ivan Toney starts up front in place of Harry Kane.
•England lost 2-1 to Argentina in the semi-finals.

Latest Updates

8:50 PMYahoo Sports — Saka starts for England vs France after sitting out semi-final

What they're saying

"
Bukayo Saka has been handed a surprise start for England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place play-off against France after not featuring at all in the semi-final defeat to Argentina.The Arsenal win...
— Yahoo Sports

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