World Cup
France's gritty win over Paraguay secures quarter‑final spot
France secured a place in the World Cup 2026 quarter‑finals after a narrow 1‑0 victory over Paraguay in the sweltering heat of Philadelphia on Thursday. The win, clinched by a Kylian Mbappé penalty, keeps Les Bleus on track for a title challenge.
In the first half the French attack failed to register a single shot on target while Paraguay defended with tenacity, earning the nickname “the Getafe of this World Cup”. The South American side’s disciplined block left the French side frustrated and unable to break through.
The second half began much like the first, with Paraguay holding a stubborn defensive line. The deadlock was broken when substitute Désiré Doué was brought down in the penalty area, prompting referee Ilgiz Tantashev of Uzbekistan to consult VAR and confirm a clear‑cut penalty.
Mbappé’s penalty lifts France past Paraguay in Philadelphia heat
Kylian Mbappé stepped up calmly and converted, marking his seventh goal of the tournament and his nineteenth overall, leaving him just one behind Lionel Messi. The penalty not only settled the match but also highlighted Mbappé’s composure under pressure. Paraguayan goalkeeper Gill made a notable double save, while French keeper Mike Maignan experienced a largely solitary game. Additionally, Koné’s long‑range effort was tipped over by Gill and Rabiot’s high ball sailed over the French defence. France now prepares for a quarter‑final clash with Morocco on Thursday at 22:00 in Boston, a repeat of the 2022 semi‑final where France emerged victorious 2‑0.