The Round of 16 clash at Philadelphia Stadium will pit two teams who have taken very different routes to the knockout stage. France, led by Didier Deschamps, arrive as one of the tournament favorites after an impressive campaign so far, while Gustavo Alfaro’s Paraguay have emerged as one of the competition’s surprise packages following their stunning upset victory over Germany.
This intriguing matchup also revives memories of the nations’ memorable encounter at the 1998 FIFA World Cup.
Paraguay Team News
Paraguay booked their place in the Round of 16 in dramatic fashion by eliminating Germany in a penalty shootout. After a fiercely contested match finished 1-1 following extra time, La Albirroja held their nerve from the spot to secure one of the biggest victories in the country’s World Cup history.
A disciplined defensive performance, coupled with Orlando Gill’s heroics in the shootout, proved decisive as Paraguay overcame one of the tournament’s traditional powerhouses. The result has further boosted confidence within the squad as they look to produce another major upset.
Paraguay have also received a significant boost ahead of this clash with the return of Diego Gomez, who served a one-match suspension against Germany. The Brighton midfielder is expected to return straight to the starting lineup and partner Andres Cubas in central midfield.
In defense, captain Gustavo Gomez and Jose Canale are set to continue their partnership at the heart of the back line. The duo have been central to Paraguay’s impressive run and now face their toughest test yet against France’s formidable attack.
France Team News
France head into the knockout rounds full of confidence following a convincing 3-0 victory over Sweden. Didier Deschamps’ side are also one of only three teams to maintain a perfect record at the 2026 World Cup, alongside Mexico and Argentina.
That flawless run has only strengthened Les Bleus’ credentials as genuine title contenders.
France’s attack has been among the tournament’s most impressive, with Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, and Bradley Barcola combining pace, creativity, and clinical finishing. With 12 goals to their name, France have been among the competition’s most prolific attacking sides.
France have very few injury concerns heading into this encounter. Marcus Thuram remains the only player being monitored after picking up a minor calf problem.
Mbappe is expected to lead the line once again as he continues his pursuit of the tournament’s all-time scoring record. Meanwhile, Olise has enjoyed an outstanding campaign, registering five assists and emerging as one of France’s most influential creative players.
Predicted Lineups
Paraguay: Gill (GK); Caceres, G. Gomez, Canale, Alonso; Galarza, Cubas, D. Gomez; Almiron, Avalos, Enciso.
France: Maignan (GK); Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Tchouameni, Rabiot; Dembele, Olise, Barcola; Mbappe.
Score Prediction
Paraguay are expected to rely on the defensive discipline and collective work ethic that have carried them this far. Julio Enciso and Miguel Almiron will be crucial on the counterattack, while Gabriel Avalos is likely to spearhead the attack from the opening whistle.
France, meanwhile, are expected to stick with the side that comfortably defeated Sweden. Their rapid transitions and attacking variety remain their greatest strengths as they look to break down Paraguay’s well-organized defense.
Paraguay have already shown they are capable of upsetting elite opposition, as demonstrated by their victory over Germany. France cannot afford to underestimate a side that has grown in confidence with each passing round.
Nevertheless, the depth, quality, and experience within the French squad should ultimately prove decisive. If Les Bleus can maintain the efficiency they have displayed throughout the tournament, they are expected to have enough firepower to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Predicted Score: Paraguay 0-3 France
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