The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 delivers a compelling clash of styles today at Philadelphia Stadium, as tournament favorites France take on the “giant-slayers” of Paraguay.
France enters this knockout showdown with immense momentum, having dominated their group stage campaign and secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Sweden in the previous round.
Led by the prolific Kylian Mbappé—who is currently chasing the Golden Boot—and the creative engine of Michael Olise, Didier Deschamps’ squad remains the team to beat.
Conversely, Paraguay has captured the world’s attention with their resilience.
After orchestrating one of the tournament’s biggest upsets by eliminating four-time champions Germany in a penalty shootout, the South Americans are looking to leverage their disciplined defensive structure to stun another European powerhouse.
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Paraguay vs France Confirmed Lineups
Paraguay Confirmed Lineup (5-4-1)
Head coach Gustavo Alfaro has opted for a highly fortified setup, prioritizing defensive stability to neutralize France’s explosive attack.
- Goalkeeper: Orlando Gill (The hero of the penalty shootout against Germany)
- Defenders: Juan José Cáceres, Gustavo Velázquez, Gustavo Gómez, Omar Alderete, Júnior Alonso
- Midfielders: Diego Gómez, Andrés Cubas, MatÃas Galarza, Miguel Almirón
- Forward: Julio Enciso
Alfaro’s five-man backline is designed to clog the channels for Mbappé and Dembélé.
The inclusion of Almirón and Enciso suggests that Paraguay intends to rely on rapid counter-attacks to exploit any space left by the aggressive French full-backs.
France Confirmed Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Didier Deschamps continues with his trusted, fluid attacking structure, banking on the individual quality of his frontline to break down the Paraguayan wall.
- Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
- Defenders: Jules Koundé, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Lucas Digne
- Midfielders: Manu Koné, Adrien Rabiot
- Attacking Midfield/Wingers: Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola
- Forward: Kylian Mbappé
France remains unchanged in their core tactical philosophy.
The midfield duo of Koné and Rabiot provides the necessary defensive cover, allowing the trio of Dembélé, Olise, and Barcola to support Mbappé.
Olise’s creative form—highlighted by his assist tally—will be the key to unlocking a stubborn Paraguayan defense.
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