France Face Resurgent Paraguay for World Cup Quarter-Final Berth

France continue their pursuit of a third FIFA World Cup title when they face surprise package Paraguay in Saturday’s round-of-16 clash at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

Contents

Team News
Possible Lineups
How to Watch
Match Prediction

Paraguay stunned four-time champions Germany in the previous round, prevailing 4-3 on penalties after a gripping 1-1 draw to produce one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Gustavo Alfaro’s men have shown remarkable resilience since their opening 4-1 defeat to co-hosts USA, losing just once in four World Cup matches while developing into one of the competition’s toughest teams to break down.

France have lived up to their billing as tournament favourites. Didier Deschamps’ side eased past Sweden 3-0 in the round of 32, with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice to move within one goal of Lionel Messi’s all-time World Cup scoring record.

france sqaud. (photo credit: goal media)

Les Bleus have now won nine of their last 10 international matches and remain one of the strongest contenders for the trophy. Their attacking quartet of Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola has been among the most devastating in the tournament.

Paraguay’s disciplined defence and fighting spirit suggest they will provide another stern examination, but France possess the experience, quality and attacking depth to edge what promises to be another entertaining knockout encounter.

Team News

Paraguay are expected to remain without defender Omar Alderete due to a knee injury. Diego Gomez returns from suspension, while Julio Enciso, Miguel Almiron and Gabriel Avalos are all set to start.

France have no new injury concerns, although Marcus Thuram remains doubtful with a calf problem. Didier Deschamps is expected to stick with the side that comfortably defeated Sweden, led by captain Kylian Mbappe.