How France battled to a hard-fought victory against Paraguay

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France v Paraguay further analysis

This last-16 tie brought together two sides at opposite ends of the footballing spectrum.

Author | Jack L

Collage of images at France v Paraguay

France's attack, which has been at its fluent best throughout this tournament, came up against a Paraguay side intent on disrupting their rhythm through physicality, aggression and disciplined defending.

Breaking them down proved far from straightforward for Didier Deschamps' side in a contest that became only the third World Cup knockout match since 1966 not to produce a shot on target in the first half.

But once again it was Mbappe who provided the defining moment, this time sending Les Bleus into the quarter-finals while ending Paraguay's impressive run.

Mbappe prepares a penalty

The France captain kept his composure from the penalty spot after some superb footwork from Doue tempted the foul, in a match where France found themselves frustrated not only by Paraguay's resilience but also by a series of refereeing decisions that went against them.

Alfaro's side conceded 13 fouls yet finished the game without a single booking, while France collected three yellow cards despite committing only 11 fouls.

Mbappe, still only 27, has now scored 19 World Cup goals in 19 appearances as he continues to chase Lionel Messi, who set the outright tournament record by taking his tally to 20 during this World Cup.

The last meeting between these sides at the World Cup also produced a tense and closely fought last-16 encounter in 1998, when France were the hosts.

On that occasion it was Laurent Blanc who struck the golden goal to eliminate Paraguay and, two weeks later, captain Didier Deschamps lifted France's first World Cup.

Deschamps occupies a different role 28 years on, but he will hope history repeats itself as his side moved another step closer to that goal.


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