The 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup wraps up its knockout stage with an exciting third-place match between Colombia vs France at Estadio El Teniente in Rancagua, Chile, on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Set to kick off at 4:00 p.m. CLST (3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT / 8:00 p.m. BST). Colombia secure third place at FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 after 1-0 win over France.
This game features two skilled teams determined to finish their tournament on a positive note after tough semifinal losses.
Colombia lost 1-0 to Argentina, and France suffered a 5-4 defeat on penalties to Morocco after a 1-1 draw. The Colombia vs France U-20 third-place match preview includes predictions, team news, lineups, and details on how to watch the game, featuring form, stats, and key insights ahead of the Morocco vs Argentina final on October 19.
Colombia vs France U-20: 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup Third-Place Match Preview, Predictions, Team News, and How to Watch
Table of Contents
Match Overview and Context
This third-place playoff is the penultimate fixture of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where 24 teams competed from September 27 to October 19. Colombia, coached by Hector Cardenas, topped Group F and impressed with wins over South Africa (3-1) and Spain (3-2) before the semifinal defeat.
France, under Luis Norton de Matos, finished first in Group E, advancing past Japan (1-0) and Norway (2-1) but falling short against Morocco.
The teams have no prior U-20 World Cup history, making this a fresh encounter at the 14,000-capacity Estadio El Teniente. Ties go to extra time and penalties, with Football Video Support (FSV) in effect.
While not the ultimate prize, third place offers bronze medals and bragging rights, often featuring open play from teams with nothing to lose.
Colombia vs France U20 Match Preview
Colombia has dazzled with attacking flair, scoring 11 goals while conceding five. Their semifinal loss to Argentina was tight, but Neyser Villareal’s hat-trick vs Spain showcased their potential.
Cardenas’ side averages 2.75 goals per game, thriving on counters and set pieces, but defensive lapses (conceding in four of five matches) could be exploited.
France enters motivated after the penalty heartbreak, having scored eight goals and conceded four. Their 2-1 quarterfinal win over Norway highlighted Saimon Bouabre’s brace, but the semifinal exposed vulnerabilities.
Averaging 2 goals per game with 58% possession, Norton de Matos’ team has the technical edge but has struggled in high-pressure moments.
This matchup blends South American passion with European precision, promising goals in Rancagua’s compact venue.
Team News and Possible Lineups
Colombia U20 Team News
No injuries or suspensions; Hector Cardenas has a full squad. Neyser Villareal, with five tournament goals, leads the attack. Expect the same 4-2-3-1 from the semifinal, with Jhojan Torres anchoring midfield.
Possible Colombia U20 Starting Lineup (4-2-3-1):
- Rojas (GK); García, Mosquera, Bazán, Palacios (DF); González, Torres (MF); Ceballos, Perea, Villarreal (AM); Durán (FW).
France U20 Team News
Fully fit, Luis Norton de Matos may rotate after penalties. Saimon Bouabre (three goals) is key, with a 3-4-3 setup emphasizing width. No changes expected.
Possible France U20 Starting Lineup (3-4-3):
- Olmeta (GK); Borgne, Zidane, Kamara (DF); Bourgault, Benama, Touré, Bermont (MF); Bouabre, N’Guessan, Michal (FW).
Colombia vs France U20 Prediction
Both teams will push for bronze with attacking intent, leading to an open game. Colombia’s momentum edges it. Prediction: Colombia 2-1 France. Los Cafeteros claim third place.
How to Watch Colombia vs France 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup Third-Place
- Date and Time: Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
- Venue: Estadio El Teniente, Rancagua, Chile
- TV and Streaming (USA): FOX Sports 2 (FS2), FOX Deportes, or stream on FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports App
- Global Options: FIFA+ (free worldwide streaming), ESPN (Latin America), beIN Sports (MENA), or local broadcasters
- Live Scores and Updates: FIFA.com, ESPN, or apps like Sofascore for real-time stats and highlights
Check for regional restrictions and use legal streams.
Colombia vs France Conclusion
Colombia vs France U20 is a fitting third-place match for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, offering consolation and celebration of talent before the final. With Colombia favored, this could produce memorable moments.
