Paraguay vs France: How to watch FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 tie, head-to-head, match predictions and more

France will face Paraguay in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The two-time world champions, who topped their group with authority, take on a resilient Paraguay side that produced one of the biggest shocks of the tournament by eliminating Germany on penalties. The clash pits France’s superior quality and experience against Paraguay’s organisation and counter-attacking threat in what promises to be a compelling knockout encounter.

Match details

Paraguay and France head-to-head details

The two sides have met five times before, with France unbeaten across all encounters (three wins, two draws). Paraguay are yet to record a victory against Les Bleus. The most notable previous clash came in the 1998 World Cup Round of 16, when France won 1-0 en route to lifting the trophy. They also met in the 1958 World Cup group stage, where France won 7-3.

Paraguay vs France team news

Paraguay: Gustavo Alfaro’s side produced one of the stories of the tournament by eliminating Germany on penalties in the Round of 32. Julio Enciso, the hero of that shootout, was substituted with a muscular concern but is expected to be fit. Diego Gomez returns from suspension in midfield, while Omar Alderete remains doubtful with a knee issue, Jose Canale should start again at centre-back. Paraguay are likely to stick with a compact, counter-attacking setup.

France: Didier Deschamps has injury concerns in attack and midfield. Marcus Thuram (calf) has been ruled out. Otherwise, France boast a near full-strength squad with Kylian Mbappe leading the line and strong options in Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola. The French topped their group comfortably and look sharp.

Paraguay vs France prediction

France enter as heavy favourites. They possess superior individual quality, greater depth, and experience in high-stakes knockout matches. Mbappe and the supporting attackers have the tools to break down Paraguay’s organised defence. Paraguay, on the other hand, have shown remarkable resilience and will look to frustrate France with a compact shape and hit on the counter through Enciso and Miguel Almiron. However, the gulf in class and France’s attacking firepower should prove decisive. Expect Les Bleus to control possession and progress to the quarter-finals.

Predicted score: Paraguay 0-2 France.

Where to watch Paraguay vs France Round of 16 clash?

Paraguay vs France predicted lineups

Paraguay predicted starting XI: Orlando Gill; Juan Jose Caceres, Jose Canale, Gustavo Gomez, Junior Alonso; Andres Cubas, Diego Gomez; Matias Galarza, Miguel Almiron; Julio Enciso, Gabriel Avalos.

France predicted starting XI: Mike Maignan; Jules Kounde, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Lucas Digne; Adrien Rabiot, A Tchouameni; Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola; Kylian Mbappe.