France set up a World Cup quarterfinal against Morocco after Kylian Mbappé’s second-half penalty secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay in Philadelphia on Saturday.
France dominated possession at Lincoln Financial Field but struggled to break down Paraguay’s compact defensive system during a goalless first half.
Manu Koné had an effort blocked in the 22nd minute, while Adrien Rabiot and Ousmane Dembélé failed to trouble goalkeeper Orlando Gill with later attempts.
Gill continued to frustrate France after the break, denying Koné and stopping another effort following a corner as Paraguay remained within reach of an upset.
The breakthrough arrived in the 70th minute after substitute Désiré Doué was brought down inside the penalty area. The referee awarded a spot kick following a video review, and Mbappé converted to score his seventh goal of the tournament and 19th of his World Cup career.
Paraguay pushed forward during a chaotic finish, but France held on to reach the last eight.
France will meet Morocco in Boston on Thursday, July 9, in a rematch of their 2022 World Cup semifinal, which the French won 2-0.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.