Paraguay vs France Betting Odds, Lineups, Prediction & Best Bets

Paraguay vs France Match Summary

A World Cup Round of 16 clash lands in Philadelphia on Independence Day, with unbeaten France meeting a Paraguay side that has already delivered one of the tournament's great shocks.

Paraguay arrive as the story of the round, having stunned Germany 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw on June 29. Gustavo Alfaro's team keep finding a way through.

France look every bit the favorites, rolling into the knockouts off a 3-0 win over Sweden on June 30 that featured a Kylian Mbappé brace. The 2018 champions look loaded.

History leans hard toward France, who are undefeated in their last five meetings against Paraguay. That record spans three French wins and two draws, with Paraguay still chasing a first result.

Paraguay vs France Form

Paraguay have grown into this tournament since a heavy opening loss to co-hosts United States, peaking with the shootout upset of Germany. Alfaro's backline held firm, conceding just one goal across 120 minutes against the Germans. This is a compact, resilient squad that thrives on counters, with Miguel Almirón and Julio Enciso providing the attacking spark up top.

France have been the most fearsome team in the field, winning all four games and scoring 13 goals along the way. Mbappé, Michael Olise, and Ousmane Dembélé look impossible to contain, and Bradley Barcola scored against Sweden. The 2018 winners carry the deepest roster and clearest identity of anyone left.

Paraguay vs France Lineups & Team News

Injuries & Suspensions

Paraguay: O. Alderete (Injured/doubtful)

France: None reported

Paraguay

Diego Gómez is set to return to the XI after serving a one-game suspension against Germany, picked up for two group-stage yellow cards. Omar Alderete is doubtful with a knee problem, which means Jose Canale looks likely to start once again in central defense.

France

France have no injury concerns heading into this one. The lone selection debate for the head coach is on the left flank, and after Bradley Barcola's goal against Sweden, the PSG winger is expected to get the nod.

Paraguay vs France Predicted Lineup

Paraguay

Formation: 4-4-2

Predicted Starting Lineup: O. Gill; J. J. Cáceres, J. Canale, G. Gómez, J. Alonso; M. Almirón, D. Gómez, A. Cubas, M. Galarza; J. Enciso, G. Ávalos

France

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Predicted Starting Lineup: M. Maignan; J. Koundé, W. Saliba, D. Upamecano, L. Digne; A. Tchouaméni, A. Rabiot; O. Dembélé, M. Olise, B. Barcola; K. Mbappé

Paraguay vs France Key Stats & Match Facts

• France are undefeated in their last five matches against Paraguay in all competitions.
• Across their five previous meetings, France have won three and drawn two, with Paraguay yet to win.
• France have won all four of their games at this World Cup, scoring 13 goals.
• Paraguay conceded just one goal to Germany over 120 minutes before advancing on penalties.
• Played in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026, the match falls on the US Semiquincentennial, marking 250 years since the Declaration of Independence.

Paraguay vs France Talking Points

The subplot here is availability versus abundance. Paraguay are managing question marks, with Omar Alderete doubtful due to a knee problem and Julio Enciso among the players battling to be right. Alfaro's group has already shown they can grind out results under pressure and find a way through, but facing France's attack with anything less than a full backline is a daunting ask.

Contrast that with the French, whose head coach has the luxury of picking between Bradley Barcola and Désiré Doué on the flanks — a selection headache born entirely of riches. With Mbappé, Olise, and Dembélé humming, the depth on the wings is the kind of problem every coach wants. Paraguay's path is clear even if it isn't easy: stay compact, dig in, and make France sweat late, much like they did against Germany.

The neutrals in Philadelphia get a heavyweight favorite against a fearless underdog on the country's 250th birthday. If Paraguay pull it off, it would be a first-ever win over France and a fitting sequel to their shootout heroics.

Paraguay vs France Predictions FAQs

When is the Paraguay vs France World Cup 2026 game?

The Paraguay vs France World Cup 2026 match is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 4, 2026, kicking off at 5:00 p.m. ET.

What is the Paraguay vs France prediction?

France are expected to control possession and win this matchup thanks to their squad depth and international experience. Paraguay will look to stay compact defensively and threaten on the counter-attack.

Where can I watch Paraguay vs France?

The Paraguay vs France match will be broadcast live in the US on FOX in English and Telemundo in Spanish. Check your local TV listings and streaming services for coverage details in your region.

Are the lineups available for Paraguay vs France?

Official lineups for Paraguay vs France will be announced roughly one hour before kickoff. Projected lineups can be found in our match preview, based on recent team news and selections.

Disclaimer

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