World Cup: ‘Nonsense, rubbish, meaningless match’ – Alan Shearer hit out at FIFA over third-place game
Alan Shearer Criticizes FIFA for Third-Place Playoff in World Cup
LONDON — Alan Shearer, the former England football star, has condemned FIFA’s decision to hold a third-place playoff at the 2026 World Cup. This match, scheduled for Saturday between France and England, will occur just three days after the semi-finals.
The so-called “bronze match” has drawn numerous criticisms from fans and analysts who question the impact on player fitness. Shearer voiced his concerns during a recent episode of The Rest Is Football podcast, asserting that the match is primarily a revenue-generating venture for FIFA.
“Nonsense, rubbish, pathetic,” Shearer said, as reported by Metro. “FIFA is talking about player welfare and hydration breaks. Do you think player welfare is considered when both teams have lost and are asked to play a meaningless third and fourth-place playoff just three or four days later? Especially in Miami’s heat. So where is player welfare in that?”
Shearer, who scored 30 goals in 63 appearances for England from 1992 to 2000, emphasized the lack of purpose for the match. “What is the goal of this match? It exists solely to generate more revenue. It is, therefore, pathetic,” he remarked. He added that if asked, most players would likely prefer to be at home recovering and preparing for a holiday.
In addition to determining third place, the match may have implications for the Golden Boot award. France’s Kylian Mbappé and Argentina’s Lionel Messi are currently tied with eight goals each, while England’s Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have both scored six goals.
