| France vs Paraguay | |
| MATCH | FIFA World Cup 2026 |
| DATE | 05 - 07 - 2026 |
| TIME | 02.30 AM IST |
| STADIUM | Lincoln Financial Field |
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FIFA World Cup 2026: Paraguay vs France Match Preview, Team News, Predicted Lineups & Prediction
France will look to continue their impressive FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign when they take on Paraguay in an intriguing Round of 16 encounter. Les Bleus have emerged as one of the tournament favorites after a flawless start, while Paraguay head into the knockout clash brimming with confidence following a historic victory over Germany.
Match Preview
Paraguay produced one of the biggest surprises of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by knocking out Germany in a dramatic Round of 32 contest. After a hard-fought 1-1 draw across 120 minutes, La Albirroja held their nerve to claim a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout, with Jose Canale converting the decisive spot-kick to send the South American nation into the last 16.
The result ranks among the greatest World Cup upsets in recent history. Ranked 41st in the world before the tournament, Paraguay overcame a German side sitting 31 places above them in the FIFA rankings, underlining the remarkable progress made under head coach Gustavo Alfaro.
After suffering a heavy defeat to the United States in their opening group-stage fixture, Paraguay have responded brilliantly. Their disciplined defensive structure, tactical organization and team spirit have made them one of the hardest sides to break down, while Alfaro's leadership has transformed the squad into genuine knockout contenders.
Paraguay's consistency has been evident since Alfaro took charge in 2024. They lost just one of their World Cup qualifying matches and have been defeated only five times in their last 23 international fixtures across all competitions.
Standing in their way, however, is a France side that has looked unstoppable throughout the tournament. Didier Deschamps' men have won all four of their World Cup matches while scoring a competition-leading 12 goals, combining defensive solidity with one of the most dangerous attacks in international football.
France cruised into the Round of 16 with a convincing 3-0 victory over Sweden, inspired by another brilliant performance from Kylian Mbappe, who scored twice to continue his outstanding tournament. Supported by Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola, the French attack has consistently overwhelmed opposing defenses.
The victory over Sweden also carried emotional significance, as Didier Deschamps returned to the sidelines following the passing of his mother. The experienced manager continues to strengthen his remarkable World Cup legacy, becoming the coach with the most victories in the tournament's history.
France have won nine of their last ten international matches and remain one of the strongest favorites to lift the trophy. Nevertheless, Deschamps has urged his players not to underestimate Paraguay after witnessing their impressive elimination of Germany.
Team News
Paraguay are expected to be without defender Omar Alderete, who is still recovering from a knee injury sustained during the group stage. Jose Canale is set to continue alongside captain Gustavo Gomez in central defense.
Diego Gomez returns from suspension and should slot back into midfield with Andres Cubas, while Damian Bobadilla and Matias Galarza remain options for the final midfield position.
Julio Enciso, Paraguay's standout performer against Germany, is expected to retain his place alongside Miguel Almiron in attack. Gabriel Avalos is likely to lead the line, although Antonio Sanabria remains an alternative should Gustavo Alfaro opt for changes.
France have no fresh injury concerns ahead of the match. Marcus Thuram remains doubtful because of a calf problem and is unlikely to be risked unless fully fit.
Didier Deschamps is expected to keep faith with the side that comfortably defeated Sweden. Kylian Mbappe will once again lead the attack as he continues his pursuit of Lionel Messi's all-time FIFA World Cup scoring record.
Michael Olise has been one of the tournament's most creative players and should continue in the attacking midfield role after registering five assists. Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola are expected to provide pace and width from the flanks, while Adrien Rabiot and Aurelien Tchouameni will anchor the midfield.
Prediction
Paraguay have already exceeded expectations with their spirited performances and memorable victory over Germany. Their disciplined defense and determined approach could frustrate France during the early stages of the contest.
However, Les Bleus possess superior quality across the pitch, greater tournament experience and one of the most explosive attacks in the competition. If Mbappe and his supporting cast perform to their usual standards, France should have enough to secure another victory and advance to the quarter-finals.
Prediction: Paraguay 0-2 France