Colombia and France to Clash in FIFA U-20 World Cup Third-Place Match

Rancagua, Chile — Colombia and France are set to face off in the FIFA U-20 World Cup third-place match on October 18 at Estadio El Teniente. Both teams are looking to conclude their tournament on a high note after losing in the semifinals. Colombia narrowly lost to Argentina, while France fell to Morocco in a penalty shootout.

Colombia, under the guidance of Coach Hector Cardenas, impressed in the tournament, defeating South Africa (3-1) and Spain (3-2) before their semifinal defeat. The team is slight favorites going into this match.

“We want to finish this tournament strongly,” Cardenas said. “Our players have worked hard, and they deserve to showcase their talent on the podium.”

Leading Colombia is Neyser Villareal, the tournament’s top scorer with five goals. Cardenas is expected to maintain the 4-2-3-1 formation that has served them well throughout the tournament.

France, managed by Luis Norton de Matos, topped Group E but stumbled against Morocco after a 1-1 draw led to penalties, where they lost 5-4. They showcased their ability to score with an average of two goals per game but will need to improve their performance in tense situations.

“We need to play with confidence and not let the last match affect us,” de Matos stated. “The players are ready to give it their all.”

France enters the match with no major injury concerns and will likely use a 3-4-3 formation to maximize their attacking potential, with Saimon Bouabre being a key player after scoring twice in their quarterfinal win against Norway.

The match kicks off at 3:00 PM ET and will be broadcasted in the United States on various platforms. Both teams are poised to fight for a podium finish, making it an exciting showdown.