France vs Paraguay: Predicted Lineup, Team News for World Cup 2026 Last 16

Didier Deschamps may tonight resist the temptation to rest some players as France face Paraguay for a place in the World Cup quarter-finals. Les Bleus have cruised to this stage of the tournament, hardly breaking a sweat despite the intense North American temperatures, and will fully expect to book their place in the last eight.

Paraguay's Giant-Killing Run

Paraguay stunned Germany in the last-32 to reach this stage, winning on penalties after the 120 minutes ended with one goal apiece. They face a mammoth task if they are to repeat the trick against a France side ranked 34th in the world.

Deschamps may be tempted to hand rests to some of his more established stars, with later rounds likely to throw up opponents including Morocco, Spain or Portugal. However, they must be wary of falling foul to another huge upset, but the French second string should have more than enough quality to get the job done.

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Rotation Options in Defence

Deschamps has already shown a penchant for rotation at this tournament. Theo Hernandez may well replace Lucas Digne at left-back, while Maxence Lacroix is an option to deputise one of William Saliba or Sayot Upamecano in the centre of defence.

Midfield and Attack Changes

Further up the pitch, France started with Aurelien Tchouameni and Adrien Rabiot in defensive midfield. Having played 90 minutes in all but one of Les Bleus’ World Cup matches so far, Real Madrid’s Tchouameni may be the man to make way, with Manu Kone in line to step up.

There are plenty of decisions to be made in the front four. The prolific Kylian Mbappe will surely continue to lead the line - he will accept nothing less than a starting berth - but the three behind him may rotate. With historic fitness issues in mind, Ousmane Dembele may get the chance to rest, with Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola more than willing to step in. Rayan Cherki could also be in line for a run out, though he will struggle to unseat Michael Olise in the No.10 role.