Mbappé penalty sends France into World Cup quarterfinals after tense win over Paraguay
France defeated Paraguay 1-0 in the Round of 16 of the World Cup, with Kylian Mbappé converting a penalty in the 70th minute. Les Bleus will face Morocco in the quarterfinals.
In front of 68,324 fans at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, France secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay on Saturday in a Round of 16 match played under sweltering conditions with temperatures reaching 38°C. France dominated possession but struggled to break down a stubborn Paraguayan defense that had eliminated Germany on penalties in the previous round.
Paraguay employed a five-man defense and a low block, frustrating France's attackers for much of the game. Les Bleus were limited to long-range shots, with Manu Koné having an effort deflected wide in the first half and another tipped over by goalkeeper Orlando Gill after the break.
The breakthrough came in the 70th minute when substitute Désiré Doué, who had replaced Bradley Barcola just after the hour mark, was fouled by Diego Gómez while dribbling in the box. The Uzbek referee awarded a penalty after a review, and despite attempts by Paraguay players to disrupt the spot, Kylian Mbappé stepped up and slotted home.
Mbappé's goal was his seventh of the tournament, tying him with Lionel Messi as joint top scorer. It also brought his career World Cup total to 19 goals in 19 appearances, just one behind Messi's all-time record of 20. Paraguay did not register a shot on target until the 90th minute and were unable to equalize.
Pre-match festivities included a performance of the US national anthem by Idina Menzel, a set by hip-hop band The Roots, and a US Air Force flyover to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence. France will now return to their base in Boston to prepare for a quarterfinal clash against Morocco, who beat Canada 3-0 earlier.
