As France gears up to face Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16, former French player Robert Pires has cautioned against underestimating Paraguay’s tenacity and aggression. Drawing parallels to their 1998 encounter, Pires highlighted the need for France to stay composed and avoid falling into Paraguay’s defensive trap.
The upcoming match echoes the tactical dynamics of their 1998 meeting, where Paraguay’s solid defense tested France until an extra-time goal secured their victory. Pires emphasized the importance of scoring early to prevent frustration from creeping in during the game. France is urged to remain focused and not succumb to Paraguay’s strategic maneuvers.
Despite Paraguay’s recent victory over Germany, Pires remains optimistic about France’s chances. With a strong lineup and impressive performance in the tournament, including standout players like Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, France is considered a formidable contender. Pires believes that France’s depth and goal-scoring capabilities will be crucial in overcoming Paraguay’s challenge.
France holds a favorable record against Paraguay, having secured three wins and two draws in their previous encounters. The upcoming match marks the third time the two teams will meet in the final stages of the World Cup, with historical precedents from 1958 and 1998. The stage is set for an intense showdown between the two nations.
