Paraguayans Did Not Fight Like Lions, Played Dirty and Spared No Means

France's Kylian Mbappe expressed outrage over Paraguay's rough play during their World Cup knockout match, stating the opponents did not fight like lions but resorted to dirty tactics. Mbappe, who scored the game's lone goal from a penalty, criticized the Paraguayan team's approach. "They thought we would come onto the field in tuxedos, just performing attractive moves and quick combinations," Mbappe said. "But we can and know how to play dirty too. If it is necessary to get into a tough game, then we will do that. We have no problem with that." The penalty was awarded late in the game after Paraguayan players fouled a French substitute. French coach Didier Deschamps echoed Mbappe's sentiments, complaining about the referee's leniency. "We received three yellow cards, while our opponents, who spared no means to stop us, only got one," Deschamps stated. "Every team has its own style and plays as it suits them, but we received too many insults from the Paraguayans." Former German referee Patrick Ittrich, now a pundit for MagentaTV, sharply criticized the referee's performance, calling it the worst of the tournament. He pointed to a particularly rough tackle on Mbappe in the 39th minute, suggesting the player's intent was to injure. Ittrich felt the referee had lost control of the match. However, Paraguayan coach Gustavo Alfaro offered a different perspective, asserting that his players' character is to fight like lions on the field.

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They thought we would come onto the field in tuxedos, just performing attractive moves and quick combinations. But we can and know how to play dirty too. If it is necessary to get into a tough game, then we will do that. We have no problem with that.