France meet Paraguay in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 at Philadelphia Stadium on Sunday at 00:30 Tehran time.
France go into the tie with a perfect record so far. Deschamps’ side topped Group I with three straight wins, then beat Sweden 3-0 in the last 16 to reach this stage with four wins from four and 13 goals scored.
Aurélien Tchouaméni is expected to miss the match because of a thigh injury, with Manu Koné likely to come into the starting XI.
Paraguay have been one of the surprises of the tournament. After reaching the knockout rounds, they eliminated Germany on penalties following a 1-1 draw in normal and extra time.
Gustavo Alfaro’s team have relied on a compact defence, team discipline and quick counters. France, meanwhile, will look to use the pace of Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, with Michael Olise also among their key creators.
Paraguay will again lean on Julio Enciso, Diego Gómez and Miguel Almirón, while Omar Alderete, Gustavo Gómez and Roberto Fernández anchor the back line.
