FIFA World Cup 2026
World Cup Preview: Paraguay vs France
Paraguay take on France in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 on Saturday, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake. France arrive as one of the tournament favourites after a dominant group stage and a comfortable knockout win, while Paraguay continue their remarkable run after eliminating Germany on penalties.
Match Preview
France have been one of the standout teams at the tournament, combining attacking flair with ruthless efficiency. Didier Deschamps’ side topped their group with a perfect record before easing past Sweden in the Round of 32, reinforcing their status as one of the strongest contenders for the title.
Their attacking trio has been particularly devastating, with Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise all contributing heavily in front of goal. France’s ability to stretch defences and create chances from multiple angles has made them extremely difficult to contain, even for well-organised teams.
Paraguay, meanwhile, have become one of the tournament’s most compelling underdog stories. Gustavo Alfaro’s side shocked Germany in the previous round, holding firm for 120 minutes before winning on penalties in a dramatic upset.
Built on defensive discipline, resilience and elite goalkeeping from Orlando Gill, Paraguay have shown they are capable of frustrating stronger opponents. Their compact shape and willingness to fight for every ball have carried them into the last 16, but France represent a major step up in quality.
This fixture also carries a layer of history: France famously beat Paraguay via a golden goal in the 1998 World Cup knockout stage, adding extra motivation for La Albirroja.
Team News
France are expected to remain unchanged after their impressive win over Sweden. Deschamps is likely to stick with his fluid attacking system, with Mbappé leading the line and supported by Dembélé and Olise in wide creative roles.
Paraguay will continue with their disciplined defensive setup. Much of their success has come from organisation and structure, and Alfaro is unlikely to abandon the approach that eliminated Germany.
Prediction
This is a classic knockout mismatch on paper: France’s depth, speed and attacking quality against Paraguay’s resilience and defensive structure.
Paraguay will likely sit deep and try to frustrate, but sustained pressure from France should eventually break through.
Prediction: Paraguay 0-2 France