Paraguay missed several World Cups. But finally delivered a worthy result, managing to collect 28 points from eighteen qualification matches. Their long-awaited tournament started with a heavy defeat, 1-4 against the USA. But then their tactical approach began to pay off. A narrow win over Turkey and a pragmatic goalless draw with Australia paved their way to the playoffs, where they sensationally knocked out Germany — winning on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
The French, finalists at the 2018 (winners) and 2022 (lost to Argentina on penalties) World Cups, qualified smoothly for the current tournament, winning five of six qualifying matches with a draw in Iceland. At the tournament itself, this powerhouse has been consistently strong. They beat Senegal, Iraq, and even Norway (albeit with Norway fielding a second squad) in the group stage, and thrashed Sweden 3-0 in the Round of 32. Mbappé already has six goals!
The South Americans are pragmatic — they average 1.2 goals both scored and conceded per match. The runners-up score an average of 2.9 goals and concede only 0.8.
Previous Matches: Paraguay vs France
In five meetings, France won twice while three ended in draws. Notably, at the “home” World Cup in 1998, after a 0-0 draw, Blanc scored in extra time, sending his team further down the path to the trophy.
Now, Deschamps’ men look more stable — we back them to win with a handicap of “-1.5 goals” (odds – 1.66).
Paraguay vs France: Key Stats and Trends
Paraguay has lost only one of their last five matches
50% of Paraguay’s matches end with both teams scoring, and the average total goals per game is 2.4
France has won nine of their last ten matches
70% of France’s matches end with both teams scoring, and the average total goals per game is 3.7
Paraguay vs France: Probable Starting Lineups
Paraguay plays in a 1-4-4-2 formation (probable lineup): Gil, Alonso, Canale, Gomez, Caceres, Galarza, Cubas, Bobadilla, Almiron, Enciso, Avalos
France plays in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (probable lineup): Maignan – Digne, Saliba, Upamecano, Koundé – Rabiot, Tchouaméni – Barcola, Olise, Dembélé – Mbappé. Cherki is reportedly depressed due to his substitute status.
