Philadelphia, July 3: France will start as overwhelming favourites when they take on surprise package Paraguay in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup on Sunday, with Didier Deschamps’ side looking to continue their impressive march towards the title.
Les Bleus have been among the standout performers of the tournament, producing a series of commanding displays built around a potent attack and a disciplined defence. France have scored 13 goals while conceding just twice in four matches, underlining their credentials as one of the leading contenders for the World Cup crown.
Captain Kylian Mbappé has been at the heart of France’s attacking brilliance, leading a forward line that has consistently troubled opposition defences with its pace, movement and creativity.
France have also been one of the most consistent attacking teams statistically, creating numerous scoring opportunities in every match while maintaining control of possession and dictating the tempo of games.
Paraguay, meanwhile, head into the knockout fixture riding high after producing one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by eliminating Germany in a penalty shootout in the previous round. (Agencies)
