​France will face Paraguay in the last 16 of the World Cup on Saturday, as Les Blues seek to extend their near-perfect start to the tournament. Under Didier Deschamps, the squad has quickly established itself as a favourite, fresh from a 3-0 rout of Sweden in the round of 32. Although France enter as heavy favourites, they will be mindful of a Paraguay side that has already shown it can upset the odds, having knocked Germany out to reach this stage. Here’s what you need to know ahead of the clash.
When is Paraguay vs France? The game kicks off at 9pm BST on Saturday, July 4, at the Philadelphia Stadium.
How can I watch it? In the United Kingdom, the match is live on BBC One, with coverage starting at 9:30pm BST. A live stream is available via BBC iPlayer.
Who will the winner face next? The victor will take on either Canada or Morocco in the quarter-finals, a match scheduled for 9pm BST in Boston on Thursday, July 9.
Team news: Paraguay welcome back Diego Gomez from suspension, but Omar Alderete remains sidelined with a knee injury from the final group game. France’s only injury concern is backup striker Marcus Thuram. Although Deschamps may consider resting key players, Paraguay’s victory over Germany could push him to field a strong starting XI similar to the one that beat Sweden.
Possible line-ups
Paraguay: Gill; Caceres, Gomez, Canale, Alonso; Almiron, Cubas, Gomez, Galarza, Enciso; Avalos.
France: Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Tchouameni, Rabiot; Dembele, Olise, Doue; Mbappe.