FIFA World Cup 2026: Coach Deschamps says Paraguay used "every trick" after France win
Philadelphia, July 5
France head coach Didier Deschamps said Paraguay used "every trick in the book" during their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 encounter, while praising his players for staying composed in a hard-fought 1-0 victory that sent Les Bleus into the quarterfinals, according to Reuters.
Speaking after the match, Deschamps said he had instructed his players to protect striker Kylian Mbappe, anticipating physical challenges from the opposition.
"I asked the two biggest lads to go and stand around Kylian at the end because they were going to chop him down," Deschamps said, as quoted by Reuters.
The France coach acknowledged Paraguay's disciplined defensive performance but criticised their approach, saying it made for an unattractive contest.
"It wasn't easy. They use every trick in the book. It's not the kind of football that will bring people to the stadium, but they defended well. It is always difficult against these South American teams," he said, as quoted by Reuters.
France booked a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the Round of 16 at Lincoln Financial Field, thanks to Kylian Mbappe's second-half penalty.
Despite dominating possession, Les Bleus found it difficult to break down Paraguay's disciplined defence, with the South Americans frustrating Didier Deschamps' side throughout the opening half.
The match became only the third FIFA World Cup knockout fixture since 1966 to reach halftime without a single shot on target, while tensions flared following a challenge on Mbappe that sparked a mass confrontation.
France finally broke the deadlock in the 66th minute after Desire Doue won a penalty, which Mbappe converted calmly. Paraguay pressed for an equaliser until the final whistle, but France held firm to secure victory and set up a quarterfinal clash with Morocco.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an Indian football fan, I love how South American teams defend passionately. Paraguay showed heart and discipline. Deschamps is just frustrated that his superstar team couldn't dominate. Mbappe penalty or not, this was a proper contest!
Deschamps has a point though. Paraguay's approach was purely defensive—no intent to play football. But that's the beauty of the World Cup, teams use whatever strategy works. France just about did enough. Quarterfinal against Morocco should be exciting!
Deschamps saying "every trick in the book" is rich coming from a team that has Mbappe diving for penalties. France escaped tonight—Paraguay deserved more respect for their defensive organization. That said, Mbappe's composure under pressure was world-class. 🏆
No shots on target until the 66th minute? That's not just Paraguay playing defensive—it's France lacking creativity. Deschamps should blame his own midfield for not finding solutions. Still, credit to Mbappe for converting the penalty when it mattered most. 👏
Honestly, I hate this narrative that defensive football is "bad for the game." Paraguay had a plan and almost executed it perfectly. France has all the superstars but still struggled. Deschamps needs to respect the opposition more—this is the World Cup, not a friendly!
M We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.