FIFA World Cup 2026: "I would get four red cards," says Zlatan praising France's composure in Round of 16 clash against Paraguay
Philadelphia, July 5
Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic praised France for keeping its composure during its FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against Paraguay, saying Didier Deschamps' side successfully resisted attempts to provoke them and responded in the best possible way by winning the match.
Speaking in a video shared by FOX Sports after France's 1-0 victory, Ibrahimovic said the match presented a different kind of challenge for the French players.
"It was a different challenge for them today. It was more about not getting provoked, staying composed, staying calm, not losing your balance, and not falling for the trick that they were doing, Paraguay," Ibrahimovic said, in a video shared by FOX Sports.
The former Swedish striker admitted that he would have found it difficult to maintain his composure under similar circumstances and could recieved four red cards in the game.
"I would get four red cards in this game. But yes, it is what it is, and I like to play it... I like to play the real game. I don't like it when somebody tries to provoke you. But it's part of the game, and it's not part of the game," he added.
Praising France's response, Ibrahimovic said the team remained calm throughout the contest and focused on getting the result.
"But France, they showed calm, they were relaxed, they did what they needed to do. They smiled at them. That's the best way to respond: smile, score goals, win the game, go with your fans now and celebrate. That's the best way to respond," he said in a video shared by FOX Sports.
Paraguay's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended with a narrow 1-0 Round of 16 defeat to France after Kylian Mbappe's second-half penalty. Despite the loss, Paraguay earned praise for its disciplined defensive display and resilient run, which included a shock victory over Germany in the previous round.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Haha, Zlatan admitting he'd get four red cards is pure gold! But honestly, Paraguay's defense was top-notch—they frustrated France for most of the game. That win against Germany earlier was no fluke. Respect to both teams! 🙌
As a football fan from Bangalore, I think Zlatan's point about 'smiling back' is underrated. Teams like India could learn from this too—emotional control wins tournaments, not just talent. France looking solid for the quarterfinals!
Paraguay's Cinderella run was amazing! Beating Germany then pushing France to the wire? That's World Cup magic right there. Zlatan's comments show he respects both sides—the warrior and the composed. Football unites us all! ⚽💪
To be honest, Paraguay's defensive tactics bordered on cynical. I get that it's strategic, but Zlatan's right—provocation isn't 'real football'. France deserved the win for playing the beautiful game properly. Deschamps is a genius!
I love how Zlatan keeps it real—man says he'd get four red cards, take that with a pinch of salt. But seriously, this World Cup has been unpredictable. Paraguay's resilience inspires smaller football nations like ours in India. 🇮🇳⚡
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