The France national team continues its campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the Round of 16.
The intense heat in Philadelphia undoubtedly influenced the flow of the match. Paraguay stuck to their fundamental strategy, setting up a multi-layered and mobile defensive block in front of their penalty area. Whenever a French player received the ball, two Paraguayan defenders were immediately nearby, rendering dribbling largely ineffective.
Before halftime, France earned numerous corners, which typically serve as a promising platform to create scoring chances. However, the “Les Bleus” struggled to capitalize in this aspect, and no clear opportunities emerged for goalkeeper Hilar.
Early in the second half, France shifted tactics to focus on shots from outside the box. The closest attempt came from Koné in the 54th minute, who struck the ball under the crossbar, but Paraguay’s goalkeeper managed to deflect it for a corner. The favorites of the 2026 World Cup were then aided by Désiré Doué, who shortly after coming on earned a penalty. The foul— a knee-to-knee challenge— was undeniable even after review by Uzbek referee Ilgiz Tantashev, whose interpretation of the events on the pitch was notably precise.
Paraguay tried to disrupt Kylian Mbappé’s rhythm, delaying the penalty kick as much as possible, but their efforts were in vain. The French captain confidently converted the spot-kick.
Including stoppage time, the teams played an additional 30 minutes during which France maintained possession but refrained from committing large numbers forward. Paraguay was forced to open up more, providing Didier Deschamps’ side with counterattacking opportunities. Despite Mbappé finding himself in shooting positions three more times, France could not extend their lead from open play. Nevertheless, the solitary goal proved sufficient for victory.
France will face Morocco in the quarterfinals, with the match scheduled for July 9.
2026 FIFA World Cup
Paraguay 0–1 France (0–0 at halftime)
Goal: Mbappé 70 (penalty) (0–1)
