France secure narrow win over Paraguay, setting up a tough quarter‑final clash with Morocco

PHILADELPHIA — Was it tougher to score in scorching 100‑degree heat or against Paraguay? France faced both challenges and secured a 1‑0 victory to advance, setting up a quarter‑final clash with Morocco in Boston. The two nations previously met in the 2022 semi‑finals, where France won 2‑0, and this encounter looks set to be even more competitive.

France anticipate a similar test against Morocco as they faced Paraguay, though Boston’s climate won’t add the heat factor. Morocco’s skill level means they will not sit deep like Paraguay, yet they will remain physically demanding and stronger on the ball. While France secured a victory on Saturday, they required officiating assistance, and frustration mounted. Repeating those mistakes against Morocco could prove fatal, especially if a penalty backs them into a corner in the round of 16.

“I’ve never played a match like this, with so many hits – cheap shots, shoves in the back. It was complicated, but we won,” said French midfielder Kouadio Kone after the game.

France anticipated this gritty, unconventional play, but the referee’s decision to let the contest flow without tight control took the challenge to a new level. The tournament has seen a growing trend of physical play to limit stoppages, and although it has at times escalated, teams have sensed they have leeway. France believe they will be prepared should a similar test arise.

“I think the referee could have given a few yellow cards; maybe that would have calmed them down a bit. We knew they’d try to disrupt us, because the coach had prepared us for it two or three days beforehand,” Saliba said. “Sometimes we can get frustrated too, but we won’t let them get away with it. We stayed focused and finished with 11 men, despite a handful of yellow cards. It was a battle, the match demanded it, and we fought it, won 1‑0, and are through.”

Saliba is correct that France claimed the battle, and the tournament is now entering a phase where recovery windows are tightening. Avoiding extra time will be advantageous, yet the intense heat caused several players to cramp, presenting an unfamiliar obstacle.

The interval between matches, which was close to a week during the group phase, has now been reduced to just five days – a factor that contributed to Aurelien Tchouameni’s absence as he recovered from a knock. Saliba acknowledged the heat’s effect but praised his teammates’ concentration, which carried them into the quarter‑finals.

“It was extremely hot today, so it was easy to tire out quickly. When you don’t score early, a match can feel long and drawn out,” Saliba noted. “But we stayed focused despite the heat.”

Paraguay created a handful of opportunities, but Julio Enciso lost stamina and was replaced in the 61st minute, while Miguel Almiron also exited after appearing to strain a hamstring. Morocco will feature Achraf Hakimi, a relentless performer capable of lasting the full 90 minutes, scoring himself and providing for teammates. As demonstrated against the Netherlands, they can become physical when required and overturn the flow of a game, as they did against Canada before seizing control.

“They’re a very strong team. They’ve beaten major nations throughout the tournament, and most importantly, they haven’t lost a single game,” Saliba observed. “So we know it won’t be easy. They’re a very good side; they defend well and have plenty of individual talent. First, we need to get some rest – we’re pretty wiped out right now – and then prepare well for the match.”

Morocco may be without striker Ismael Saibari, who reportedly suffered a hamstring injury, but the Atlas Lions are not a one‑man show. Sufiane Rahimi entered from the bench and scored as Morocco routed Canada 3‑0, becoming the first team to eliminate a host nation this World Cup. Having improved their standing in every tournament since ending a 36‑year drought in 2018, Morocco will face adversity without fear and press their opponents aggressively.

Didier Deschamps’ side faltered in their first genuine tournament test, but further lapses would endanger their campaign. If an opponent can do more than merely physical damage – finding the net and threatening France’s title prospects – their run could end.

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