Deschamps warns of Paraguay's 'South American DNA' after Sweden win

France secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with a decisive 3-0 victory over Sweden. Head coach Didier Deschamps expressed pride in his team's performance, stating they are fulfilling their duties. However, he acknowledged that while they had some tolerance for the challenges faced, they could have been more patient.

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We are very proud. We are fulfilling our duty, including myself. We saw some tough matches in the Round of 32 before our game. We had some tolerance, but we could have been more patient. We must be grateful for that.

Deschamps emphasized the importance of focusing on the immediate next step rather than looking too far ahead in the tournament. "We have another tough match in four days. This is why the players are here. We need to take the next step. There's no point looking too far ahead, because reality can be different," he stated.

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We have another tough match in four days. This is why the players are here. We need to take the next step. There's no point looking too far ahead, because reality can be different.

The French team will face Paraguay in the next round. Deschamps cautioned his players about their upcoming opponent, noting their strong character and "South American DNA." He stressed that despite having talented players, they must replicate their performance against Paraguay. "Let's not rush. We have two days to enjoy this, then we will shift gears again," he added.

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We have talented players, but we will have to do it all over again in four days. Paraguay has South American DNA, and that unites them really well. Let's not rush. We have two days to enjoy this, then we will shift gears again.