France, with a perfect group stage record, face a resilient Paraguay side that edged through by the skin of their teeth. Can the underdogs pull off a shock?
The Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires will host a fascinating World Cup last-16 tie as Paraguay take on France. The South Americans, who finished third in Group C with four points, face a monumental challenge against a French side that swept through Group D with a perfect nine points. While France look imperious, Paraguay have shown they can grind out results, and this knockout clash promises drama.
Summary
Paraguay's path to the last 16 was anything but smooth. They opened with a thrilling 5-4 win over Germany, then drew 0-0 with Australia before a 1-0 victory over Turkey. However, a 4-1 loss to the United States in their final group game left them on four points and with a goal difference of -2, scraping through as one of the best third-placed teams. Their form has been erratic but they possess a stubborn defensive core.
France, meanwhile, have been devastating. They beat Sweden 3-0, Norway 4-1, Iraq 3-0, and Senegal 3-1 in friendlies, carrying that momentum into the tournament. Their attacking trio of Mbappé, Griezmann, and a resurgent Benzema has been unstoppable. With eight goals scored and just one conceded, they are many pundits' favourites to lift the trophy.
Team News & Form
Paraguay have no major injury concerns, but coach Guillermo Barros Schelotto may consider changes after the heavy defeat to the USA. The experienced centre-back pairing of Gustavo Gómez and Júnior Alonso will be crucial, while Miguel Almirón provides creativity from midfield. Up front, Ángel Romero and Derlis González will look to exploit any French defensive lapses.
France have a fully fit squad, with Didier Deschamps likely to stick with the 4-3-3 that has served them so well. Kylian Mbappé is the tournament's top scorer so far, and the midfield trio of Tchouaméni, Rabiot, and Griezmann offers both steel and flair. The only question is at left-back, where Lucas Hernández or Theo Hernández could start.
Key Players
Miguel Almirón (Paraguay) – The Newcastle playmaker is Paraguay's main creative outlet. His dribbling and eye for a pass could unlock the French defence, but he must also track back to help his full-backs.
Kylian Mbappé (France) – The French superstar is in scintillating form, with four goals in the group stage. His pace and direct running will terrify the Paraguay backline, and he will be the focal point of France's attack.
Predicted Lineups
Paraguay (4-4-2): Fernández; Rojas, Gómez, Alonso, Arzamendia; Á. Romero, Cubas, Giménez, Almirón; D. González, Sanabria.
France (4-3-3): Lloris; Pavard, Varane, Kimpembe, L. Hernández; Tchouaméni, Rabiot, Griezmann; Dembélé, Benzema, Mbappé.
Key Battles
The midfield duel will be pivotal. Paraguay's hard-working trio of Cubas, Giménez, and Almirón must disrupt France's rhythm and prevent Tchouaméni from dictating play. If France's midfield gains control, Mbappé and Benzema will have ample service.
Another key battle is between Mbappé and Paraguay's right-back, likely Rojas. Mbappé's pace is a nightmare for any defender, and Rojas will need support from his midfield to avoid being isolated.
Head-to-Head
These two sides have met only twice before, both in friendlies. France won 2-1 in 2004 and 2-0 in 2018. This is their first competitive encounter, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
Score Prediction
France's firepower and defensive solidity make them heavy favourites. Paraguay will be compact and look to counter, but France's quality should prevail. Prediction: Paraguay 0-3 France.
Where to Watch
The match kicks off at 21:00 UTC on 4 July 2026. In the UK, it will be live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. US viewers can catch it on Fox Sports and Telemundo. Streaming options include FuboTV and Sling TV.
