Mbappé and France bring World Cup 2026's deadliest attack against Paraguay's Orlando Gill in round of 16

Contrasting paths to the last 16

France has scored 13 goals in four matches, winning all, while Paraguay ground out a penalty shootout win over Germany after a 1-1 draw. The teams have met twice at World Cups, with France winning both: 7-3 in 1958 and 1-0 in 1998 on a golden goal by Laurent Blanc. A 2017 friendly also ended 5-0 for the French.

France's explosive attack

Kylian Mbappé leads with six goals in the tournament, moving to 18 career World Cup goals, one shy of Lionel Messi's record. Michael Olise has supplied five assists, the most at a World Cup since Thomas Häßler in 1994. The front line with Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola, and Désiré Doué has tormented defenses, netting at least three goals each game.

Paraguay's rugged defense

Paraguay's game plan under coach Gustavo Alfaro is built on pressure and discipline. They lead the tournament in forced opposition turnovers (209) and defensive pressures (1,421). Midfielders Matías Galarza and Andrés Cubas rank first and second in direct pressure actions. Goalkeeper Orlando Gill, who sold his belongings to pay for his child's medical treatment, became a national hero by saving two penalties against Germany.

Match info

The match kicks off at 23:00 CEST at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, broadcast in Spain on La 1, RTVE Play, and DAZN.