Mbappé penalty sends France past physical Paraguay 1-0, sets up World Cup quarter-final with Morocco
Kylian Mbappé's 70th-minute penalty proved decisive as France overcame a rugged Paraguay side 1-0 in Philadelphia, booking a quarter-final clash with Morocco.
Match overview
France secured a 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the World Cup round of 16 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty in the 70th minute after Désiré Doué was brought down by Diego Gomez. The win sets up a quarter-final against Morocco.
Provocations and referee controversy
Paraguay employed aggressive, provocative tactics throughout the match, repeatedly fouling Mbappé and other French players. Uzbek referee Ilgiz Tantashev did not issue a single yellow card to Paraguay despite numerous incidents, while booking three French players (Barcola, Koné, Olise). A scuffle erupted in the 30th minute after a foul on Mbappé, and Matias Galarza struck Mbappé off the ball before half-time without sanction. The referee required VAR to award the penalty and still did not show a card.
We knew what kind of match we were going to have. It's very good, it shows we are not just an attacking team. If we have to get our hands dirty, we will do it! They thought we would come in tuxedos to play nice one-twos. But even in their game, we were better than them! It's their way of playing, but the only way to play is to win! We take another step.
France's attacking struggles
France found it difficult to break down a deep-lying Paraguayan defense. Barcola, Dembélé, and Olise struggled to create chances, and the team managed few clear openings before the penalty. Mbappé's goal moved him level with Lionel Messi as the tournament's top scorer with seven goals.
Defensive solidity
Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba anchored the defense, cutting out Paraguayan counter-attacks and dominating aerial duels. Upamecano was particularly composed, calming teammates amid rising tensions. The French goalkeeper made a crucial save on Paraguay's only shot on target in the 89th minute.
What's next
France will face Morocco in the quarter-finals. Three French players (Barcola, Koné, Olise) are on yellow cards and must avoid suspension.
- Bradley Barcola booked for excessive engagement.
- Mbappé fouled, scuffle involving ten players; no cards for Paraguay.
- Mbappé struck off the ball by Matias Galarza; referee takes no action.
- Désiré Doué fouled in the box by Diego Gomez; VAR confirms penalty.
- Kylian Mbappé scores penalty, France 1-0.
- Mbappé kicked by Juan Caceres, Upamecano elbowed; no free kick given.
- Michael Olise booked after Galarza simulation; France advances.
