France faces Paraguay in World Cup last 16 as Philadelphia braces for 40°C heat and Independence Day crowds
Les Bleus take on a stubborn Paraguay side at Lincoln Financial Field on Saturday, with a quarter-final spot against Canada or Morocco at stake.
Match details
The round of 16 clash between France and Paraguay kicks off at 23:00 CEST (17:00 local time) on Saturday 4 July at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. It is the second of two last-16 ties that day, following Canada vs Morocco at 19:00 CEST in Houston. Both games will be broadcast live in France on M6 and beIN Sports 1.
- Canada vs Morocco kicks off in Houston
- France vs Paraguay kicks off in Philadelphia
France's dominant run
France have been the tournament's most impressive side, winning all four matches and scoring 13 goals while conceding only 2. They topped their group with victories over Senegal (3-1), Iraq (3-0) and Norway (4-1), then dismantled Sweden 3-0 in the round of 32. Kylian Mbappé leads the scoring with 6 goals, and Michael Olise has provided 5 assists.
- vs Senegal
- 3 goals
- vs Iraq
- 3 goals
- vs Norway
- 4 goals
- vs Sweden
- 3 goals
Paraguay's resilient path
Paraguay advanced as one of the best third-placed teams after a 1-4 loss to the USA, a 1-0 win over Turkey and a 0-0 draw with Australia. In the round of 32 they stunned Germany, holding them 1-1 after Julio Enciso's opener and prevailing 4-3 on penalties. Their defensive organisation and physical intensity are expected to test France.
Heat and celebrations
The match coincides with the 250th anniversary of US independence, with Philadelphia hosting large-scale festivities. Temperatures are forecast to reach around 38-40°C, with a risk of thunderstorms. The extreme heat could influence the pace of the game.
What's next
The winner will face either Morocco or Canada in the quarter-finals. Those two nations meet earlier in the day in Houston.
