The Bronze Final is the match between the two losing semi-finalists at a major tournament. It is played to decide third place. It was previously known as the ‘third-place play-off.’
What does it mean?
Traditionally, this match had a reputation as a game neither team really wanted to play, coming right after the disappointment of a semi-final defeat. For the 2026 World Cup, FIFA rebranded it as the ‘Bronze Final,‘ with an actual bronze medal awarded to the winning team.
Examples
- England beat France 6-4 in a dramatic Bronze Final.
- Neither team wanted to play in what was once called the third-place play-off, now known as the Bronze Final.
- The Bronze Final has traditionally been played the day before the final itself.
Similar Words/Phrases
- Third-place play-off
- Third-place match
Learn More
- Listen to our podcast from Day 39 of the 2026 World Cup
- Translate it or use it in a sentence (forum)
