France left the Paraguay match with a valuable win, but also with a clear warning before facing Morocco in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Paraguay relied on a highly physical approach, using tight marking and repeated contact to disrupt France’s rhythm and limit their key attacking players.
Although France controlled phases of the match, they struggled to create clear chances before Mbappé settled the tie from the penalty spot after a VAR intervention.
The tension rose late on, with heated moments between players and Paraguay pushing for an equaliser, but France stayed composed until the final whistle.
The match showed that France’s title route will require more than flair; it will also demand mental and physical resilience against opponents with very different styles.