The streets of Philadelphia were buzzing with celebration as the United States marked its 250th anniversary, setting the stage for a high‑stakes World Cup clash between France and Paraguay.
Under a scorching sun, the French side faced a Paraguay team that adopted a gritty, low‑block approach, peppering the pitch with fouls and attempts to rile the visitors.
The decisive moment arrived after a VAR‑reviewed foul on Desire Doue
The referee pointed to the spot, and Kylian Mbappé stepped up to convert the penalty, his seventh goal of the tournament drawing him level with Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot.
France’s tactical display was marked by a lack of cutting edge in transition, with many shots coming from distance, yet the disciplined defensive shape limited Paraguay’s chances for over an hour.
Despite the heat and Paraguay’s physical tactics, the French side held firm, securing a 1‑0 victory that propelled them into the quarter‑finals, where they will meet Morocco, a team expected to open up more space behind its defense.