Another France, another victory

France has advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup, showcasing a different facet of their game with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay. While not their most offensively brilliant performance, the team demonstrated a capacity for grit and intensity, successfully shutting down their opponents and securing a crucial win.

Despite a high possession rate of 66%, France managed only five shots on target. Key attacking players like Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise, and Ousmane Dembélé were not at their most decisive. Mbappé's sole goal came from a penalty, and while Olise showed volume, he lacked the decisive touch. Dembélé was not conclusive, and Mbappé was not definitive in or out of the box.

The French defense, however, was resolute. Goalkeeper Mike Maignan, protected by center-backs Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba, faced no shots on target. Paraguay's five attempts all went wide, with none considered clear chances. The team's ability to limit Paraguay to minimal opportunities was a testament to their defensive organization.

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I think we knew what kind of game we were going to have. I think the game we had and how we played it was very good. We showed that we are a team that knew how to play offensive football, but if we have to get our hands dirty, we will get our hands dirty. Sorry for the expression. We have no problem with that.

Kylian Mbappé acknowledged the team's adaptability after the match. "I think we knew what kind of game we were going to have. I think the game we had and how we played it was very good. We showed that we are a team that knew how to play offensive football, but if we have to get our hands dirty, we will get our hands dirty," he stated, referencing the physical nature of the match.

Paraguay's goalkeeper, Orlando Gill, recognized as the best player of the match, described the opponent's style. "This is football; if they are not used to this, what can we do. Paraguay is like this, it is a rough team, very physical. We wanted to make ourselves felt, make ourselves feel tough, that if the ball passed, the man did not," he explained. France will now face Morocco in the quarterfinals.

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This is football; if they are not used to this, what can we do. Paraguay is like this, it is a rough team, very physical. We wanted to make ourselves felt, make ourselves feel tough, that if the ball passed, the man did not.