CORNERFLICK
Didier Deschamps has told France to treat Paraguay with respect before their World Cup last-16 meeting, saying the South Americans have earned their place in the tournament.
Paraguay reached this stage after beating Germany on penalties in the round of 32, having first progressed from the group phase as one of the best third-placed sides in a section that also included the United States, Australia and Turkey.
Deschamps said Paraguay’s best-ever World Cup run was no accident. He pointed to players such as Enciso and Almiron, as well as the team’s long-term understanding and collective discipline.
France have relied heavily on Kylian Mbappe, who has scored six goals in four matches, but Deschamps stressed that success comes from balance across the side. He singled out the midfield work of Aurelien Tchouameni, Adrien Rabiot and Manu Kone, saying the team functions as a puzzle rather than separate units.
The France coach also recalled beating Paraguay in the 1998 World Cup as a player, when Laurent Blanc scored the golden goal in the round of 16. He said that match remains a key part of World Cup history, but added this one will be different.