Mbappé Sends France Into Quarter-finals
Les Blues have advanced into the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup, beating Paraguay in the round of 16 with a decisive penalty from Mbappé in the 70th minute of the game. France is set to face Morocco in the quarterfinal at Boston on Friday.
Paraguay Make Life Difficult for Les Bleus
In both halves of the game, Paraguay disrupted France with an aggressive, physical approach, attack, and midfield. Players including Mbappé, Dembélé, and Olise failed to make a difference in the first half in front of the resilient Paraguayan side despite holding possession for most of the time.
In the second half, Paraguay faced huge setbacks with the substitution of Julian Enciso and Miguel Almirón, who were the players who could create a significant impact in the attack for the team. Over-reliance on physical challenges and fouls also backfired for Gustavo Alfaro's side in the second half. At the 70th minute, they conceded a foul inside the penalty box, which is unnecessary in a scenario where Desiree Doue is playing a backpass. The penalty is converted by Mbappé, taking his tournament tally to seven goals in five matches.
French players stayed calm throughout the match with mature responses to the provocation and robust challenges from Paraguayan players. The defensive unit with Digne, Saliba, Upamecano, and Koundé delivered a class performance by stopping Paraguayan counterattacks effectively.
Orlando Gill Keeps Paraguay Alive
Mbappé's multiple shots are saved by Paraguayan keeper Orlando Gill with magnificent saves. He pulled off a remarkable double save in the final minutes of the game to protect Paraguay from humiliation, and the San Lorenzo player is the best Paraguayan player in this match.
Gustavo Alfaro’s side is receiving severe criticism for their pragmatic style of play and dangerous challenges against opponent players throughout the contest.
France Set Up Morocco Quarter-final
France overcame a tough challenge to secure a hard-earned victory, with Didier Deschamps' men battling their way into the next round of the tournament. Les Bleus will now take on Morocco in a highly anticipated clash.