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Rabat – France and Paraguay meet in a crucial Round of 16 encounter on Matchday 4 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with both sides aiming to boost their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals.
Les Bleus enter the contest following a dominant run in their group stage campaign, while the South American side arrives determined to pull off a historic upset on the global stage. With a place in the next round at stake and survival hanging in the balance, both managers have revealed the tactical setups tasked with delivering a decisive victory.
France head coach Didier Deschamps has deployed a fluid 4-2-3-1 formation, while Paraguay’s Gustavo Alfaro has opted for a heavily fortified defensive unit to counter the French frontline.
France’s squad to feature against Paraguay
France head coach Didier Deschamps has named his lineup for the team’s knockout match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Paraguay.
Mike Maignan starts in goal behind a defense featuring Lucas Digne, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, and Jules Kounde.
In midfield, Adrien Rabiot and Manu Koné provide creativity and balance.
The French attack is led by Bradley Barcola, Michael Olise, and Ousmane Dembélé, with captain Kylian Mbappé spearheading the frontline.
Paraguay’s squad to feature against France
Paraguay head coach Gustavo Alfaro has named his lineup for the team’s knockout match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against France.
Orlando Gill starts in goal behind a defense featuring Juan José Cáceres, Gustavo Velázquez, Gustavo Gómez, Omar Alderete, and Júnior Alonso.
In midfield, Diego Gómez, Andrés Cubas, and Matías Galarza provide creativity and balance.
Paraguay’s attack is led by Miguel Almirón, with forward Julio Enciso spearheading the frontline.
France starting XI vs Paraguay
Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
Defenders: Lucas Digne, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Jules Kounde
Midfielders: Adrien Rabiot, Manu Koné, Michael Olise
Forwards: Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé, Kylian Mbappé
Paraguay starting XI vs France
Goalkeeper: Orlando Gill
Defenders: Juan José Cáceres, Gustavo Velázquez, Gustavo Gómez, Omar Alderete, Júnior Alonso
Midfielders: Diego Gómez, Andrés Cubas, Matías Galarza
Forwards: Miguel Almirón, Julio Enciso
Both sides approach the Round of 16 clash seeking a monumental victory and an opportunity to move closer to qualification for the Quarter-finals.
