Former French star Emmanuel Petit has launched a scathing attack on the third-place play-off in major tournaments (such as the World Cup and European Championship), describing it as useless and rejected by fans and professionals alike.

In strong remarks, the 1998 World Cup winner expressed his displeasure at the continued holding of this match, saying:

"The third-place match is a trivial game; no player wants to play it, and no fan wants to watch it."

Petit's comments reopen the debate on the 'consolation match', which has long faced widespread criticism from players and coaches due to the lack of real motivation after losing the semi-final, as well as the physical and mental exhaustion experienced by players at the end of major tournaments.

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