England take on France in the World Cup quarter-final this Saturday at 7pm inside the Al Bayt Stadium, where the Three Lions face a seriously tough test against Les Bleus.
Gareth Southgate has the chance to guide England to a second successive World Cup semi-final if he can overcome Didier Deschamps and superstars such as Kylian Mbappe, after reaching that stage at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Ahead of the mouthwatering fixture, let’s take a look at the World Cup history between England and France…
Have England ever played France in the World Cup?
To put it simply, yes.
England have played France at the World Cup on two occasions, with the first clash coming way back in 1966.
The Three Lions defeated Les Bleus by a 2-0 scoreline in the final Group Stage match of the 1966 World Cup, thanks to two goals from Roger Hunt.
England also took on France in the 1982 World Cup, with two goals from Bryan Robson helping the Three Lions record a 3-1 win.
Remarkably, Robson’s first effort came after just 28 seconds, making it the fourth-quickest World Cup goal in history.
France have enjoyed themselves much more in the European Championships, winning one and drawing two of their three clashes with England in that tournament.
Fortunately for Southgate, this is the World Cup, where England boast a 100% record over France.
England’s 100% World Cup record against France under threat
In our view, it will take a monumental effort from Southgate and the England squad to defeat France.
Les Bleus didn’t even look like they got themselves out of third gear when putting Poland to the sword in the Round of 16, as two phenomenal strikes from Mbappe secured the win.
Of course, England have more quality than Poland, but things will still be very difficult with the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele and Olivier Giroud in attack alongside Mbappe.
Having said that, if England can maintain their 100% World Cup record over France, then they have a fantastic chance to win the famous trophy for a second time.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
