The French national football team’s hopes of a relaxed evening in Miami were shut down by manager Didier Deschamps, as reported by Le Equipe. Following their painful 2-0 semi-final elimination against Spain at the FIFA World Cup 2026, the players were desperate to clear their heads. Before flying out from Boston to Miami on Thursday, a vast majority of the squad pushed for a free night in the city. The players even negotiated for a strict midnight curfew just to get some time away from the intense training atmosphere. However, Deschamps rejected the idea. The strict coach refuses to let his team drop their guards before Saturday’s third-place match against England, set to be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026.
Didier Deschamps firmly believes there is still an important job left to do. The legendary manager wants to keep Les Bleus under absolute control and maintain high pressure until the final whistle of the tournament.
Deschamps has already announced that he will step down as national team coach at the end of this World Cup. Because of this, he is determined not to end his historic tenure with two back-to-back defeats. The coaching staff also pointed out that a late night out would ruin the players’ physical recovery after weeks of exhausting matches.
France vs England: Latest Team News and Match Details
The “small final” on Saturday night at the Miami Stadium promises to be a massive battle between two traditional rivals. Both teams are desperate to leave North America with a bronze medal.
France: The Captain’s Mission: Kylian Mbappe is currently tied with Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race with eight goals. Deschamps will rely on his talisman to lead the attack alongside Ousmane Dembele.
After failing to score in the first half of their recent knockout games, France will look to be more clinical from the very first minute rather than waiting for second-half adjustments.
England: Thomas Tuchel’s England side suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Argentina in their semi-final.Â
England’s defense will have to be at its best to stop the French forwards, setting up a club-teammate battle between Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe.
Weather Alert:
Fans and teams should prepare for potential drama, as official weather forecasts predict heavy thundery showers and a risk of lightning in Miami on Saturday.Â
