Here is the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-05 02:46:00.
Kylian Mbappé scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot as France narrowly defeated Paraguay 1-0 in the World Cup round of 16 held in Philadelphia on Saturday.
Despite facing tough physical play from Paraguay, France managed to secure the win with a crucial penalty in the second half. The game was played under extreme heat warnings, with temperatures soaring around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). Mbappé found the back of the net in the 70th minute after a foul on Désiré Doué, leading to a VAR review that awarded the penalty.
Deschamps’ Strategy
French coach Didier Deschamps emphasized the need for composure during the match. “If we have played their game we won’t win,” he stated, advising his players to avoid unnecessary reactions. France had already received three yellow cards, highlighting the need for discipline.
France will advance to face Morocco in the quarterfinal on Thursday at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Morocco triumphed over co-hosts Canada, winning 3-0 earlier on Saturday.
During the match, Mbappé had a chance to extend France’s lead with a breakaway, but he faltered. Additionally, Manu Koné’s powerful shot was thwarted by Paraguay’s goalkeeper Orlando Gill, who was also involved in a dramatic moment with Ousmane Dembélé just moments earlier.
Mbappé’s penalty marks his seventh goal in the FIFA World Cup 2026, placing him level with Argentina’s Lionel Messi in the competition for the Golden Boot. He remains one goal behind Messi’s all-time record of 20 World Cup goals.
Toward the end of the match, Mbappé attempted another long-range shot that Gill managed to deflect. In stoppage time, Gill demonstrated his skills again by denying Mbappé on two separate occasions.
Historic Performances
Only Mbappé and Messi have scored at least seven goals in two separate World Cup tournaments. Mbappé previously won the Golden Boot in Qatar, although Argentina ultimately defeated France in the final.
In the race for the Golden Boot this year, Norway’s Erling Haaland and England’s Harry Kane trail with five goals each.
The heat during the match prompted hydration breaks, which some have argued disrupt the flow of the game. Spectators visibly sought relief from the sun, taking refuge in shaded areas during breaks.
Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.
FAQs
Who scored the winning goal for France?
Kylian Mbappé scored the only goal of the match from the penalty spot.
What is the next match for France?
France will face Morocco in the quarterfinal on Thursday at Gillette Stadium.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-05 02:46:00
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Tags: #Mbappé #penalty #edges #Paraguay #France #reach #World #Cup #quarterfinals
Tags: #Mbappé #penalty #edges #Paraguay #France #reach #World #Cup #quarterfinals
