World Cup: France overcomes Paraguay's defense with Mbappé penalty

France, the tournament favorite, advanced to the World Cup quarterfinals after a narrow 1-0 victory over Paraguay, a team that had previously upset Germany. The win, secured by a Kylian Mbappé penalty in the 70th minute, keeps France on track for a potential third World Cup title.

Mbappé's goal, his 19th in World Cup history, places him just one goal behind Lionel Messi's record. The French striker expressed relief and determination after the match, stating, "If we have to get our hands dirty, we get our hands dirty. I have no problem with that. They just wanted to fight. We can also play dirty, but we were still better than them."

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We showed that we can play not only offensive football.

Paraguay put up a formidable defensive effort, often packing nine players into their penalty area, making it difficult for the French attack to find clear scoring opportunities. Despite dominating possession and attempting numerous attacks, France struggled to break down the South American side's resolute defense. Shots from Manu Koné and Adrien Rabiot missed the target before the decisive penalty.

This victory marks France's third World Cup encounter with Paraguay, following wins in 1958 and a dramatic extra-time win in 1998 en route to their first title. For Paraguay, the loss ends their World Cup campaign and their hopes of matching their best-ever performance from 2010. They relied heavily on counter-attacks, often with Julio Enciso isolated up front.

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If we have to get our hands dirty, we get our hands dirty. I have no problem with that. They just wanted to fight. We can also play dirty, but we were still better than them.