France continue their quest for World Cup glory when they face surprise package Paraguay in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Paraguay stunned four-time champions Germany in the previous round after a dramatic penalty shootout, while France comfortably dispatched Sweden to maintain their perfect record in the tournament. With a place in the quarter-finals on the line, Les Bleus will be eager to avoid becoming Paraguay’s next upset.
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Kylian Mbappé and Julio Enciso ahead of the World Cup Round of 16.
Match Details
| Competition | FIFA World Cup 2026 |
|---|---|
| Match | Paraguay vs France |
| Stage | Round of 16 |
| Venue | Philadelphia Stadium |
| Date | July 5, 2026 |
| Kickoff | TBA |
Paraguay Chasing Another Giant-Killing
Paraguay have become one of the biggest stories of the tournament.
After recovering from a heavy opening defeat in the group stage, Gustavo Alfaro’s side have grown stronger with every match, culminating in a famous penalty shootout victory over Germany after an outstanding defensive performance.
Led by Julio Enciso, Miguel Almirón and captain Gustavo Gómez, Paraguay continue to frustrate stronger opponents with their organization and disciplined defending.
Paraguay World Cup Form
🔴 L | 🟢 W | 🟡 D | 🟢 W
Paraguay Form (All Competitions)
🔴 L | 🟢 W | 🔴 L | 🟢 W | 🟡 D | 🟢 W
France Continue to Impress
France have looked every bit like title favorites throughout the competition.
Didier Deschamps’ side have won all four of their matches while scoring twelve goals, thanks to the outstanding form of Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé and Bradley Barcola.
The French attack continues to overwhelm opponents, while their defensive unit has remained equally impressive.
France World Cup Form
🟢 W | 🟢 W | 🟢 W | 🟢 W
France Form (All Competitions)
🔴 L | 🟢 W | 🟢 W | 🟢 W | 🟢 W | 🟢 W
Team News
Paraguay are expected to remain without defender Omar Alderete, meaning José Canale should continue alongside captain Gustavo Gómez in central defense.
Julio Enciso and Miguel Almirón will once again provide the main attacking threat, while Gabriel Ávalos is expected to lead the line.
France have no major injury concerns, with Didier Deschamps likely to keep faith in the same lineup that comfortably defeated Sweden.
Predicted Lineups
Paraguay Predicted XI
Gill; Cáceres, G. Gómez, Canale, Alonso; Galarza, Cubas, D. Gómez; Almirón, Ávalos, Enciso
France Predicted XI
Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Tchouaméni, Rabiot; Dembélé, Olise, Barcola; Mbappé
Key Players to Watch
Julio Enciso (Paraguay)
The Brighton forward remains Paraguay’s biggest attacking weapon. His pace and creativity could be crucial if Paraguay are to threaten France on the counterattack.
Kylian Mbappé (France)
France’s captain continues to deliver on the biggest stage. His speed, movement and clinical finishing make him one of the tournament’s most dangerous players.
Head-to-Head
Paraguay have never defeated France in an official match.
Their most memorable meeting came at the 1998 World Cup, where France eventually won in extra time before going on to lift the trophy.
Match Prediction
Paraguay’s defensive discipline has already caused major problems for Germany, but France possess far greater attacking variety and individual quality.
Les Bleus should dominate possession, while Paraguay will look to defend deep and strike on the counter. Over ninety minutes, France’s firepower is expected to prove too much.
Predicted Score
Paraguay 0-2 France
Predicted Result
✅ France Win
Final Verdict
Paraguay deserve enormous credit for reaching the Round of 16 and eliminating one of the tournament favorites, but facing France represents an even greater challenge.
Expect another disciplined display from the South Americans, yet France’s attacking talent should eventually break through and send Les Bleus into the quarter-finals.
Final Prediction: 🔥 Paraguay 0-2 France
