FRANCE BEAT PARAGUAY ON MBAPPE PENALTY IN PHILADELPHIA
France advanced to the quarter-final after defeating Paraguay 1-0 in Philadelphia. Kylian Mbappe scored the winning goal from a second-half penalty. The match saw Paraguay mount a resolute defensive performance against the World Cup favourites.
France dominated possession throughout the encounter, but Paraguay's defensive organisation restricted clear chances for large periods of the match. Mbappe's penalty proved decisive in breaking the deadlock and securing France's progression. Paraguay competed effectively in midfield and limited the opportunities available to France's attacking players.
The victory confirms France's passage to the knockout stages' next round. France will now prepare for their quarter-final fixture, which will be scheduled following the completion of other round-of-16 matches. Paraguay's campaign ended at the round-of-16 stage despite their organised defensive approach throughout the tournament.