History only remembers the names of the winners. Possibly that of the finalists. But in any case not that of those who do not participate. This is even more true during the Football World Cup.
The finals remain engraved in memories, while the matches for third place very quickly fall into oblivion. Who remembers that Croatia beat Morocco in 2022 in Qatar? Probably not many people. This year, this duel will pit France and England against each other this Saturday (11 p.m.) in Miami.
Small finals in the 21st century
2022: Croatia – Morocco 2-1
2018: Belgium – England 2-0
2014: Brazil – Netherlands 0-3
2010: Uruguay – Germany 2-3
2006: Germany – Portugal 3-1
2002: South Korea – Türkiye 2-3
The reasons behind holding this match are quite obvious. They are financial. Holding an additional meeting helps sell additional tickets, increase advertising revenue and increase the overall audience for the competition. It pretty much ends there.
The sporting interest of such a meeting is simply non-existent. Although FIFA highlights the bronze medal or even a place on the podium of the most prestigious competition in international football to justify the organization of this game in sporting terms. This doesn’t convince anyone.
A torture for the supporters
“No player wants to play this match. Neither with us, nor with the French players,” declared Thomas Tuchel, the England coach, after the elimination of his team. In 2014, Louis Van Gaal, the Netherlands coach, was of the same opinion: “This match should not take place.”
Even for supporters of two teams, this meeting is torture. She reminds them that their country came very close to the most important event in world football.
Are you going to watch this little finale?
