Former world champions France booked their place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the round of 16.
The match was played early Sunday morning Bangladesh time at Lincoln Financial Field in the United States, where Les Bleus secured their place in the last eight with a narrow win.
France dominated possession from the opening whistle but struggled to break down Paraguay`s disciplined defence. Paraguay, meanwhile, offered little attacking threat, and neither side managed a shot on target throughout the first half as the teams went into the break level at 0-0.
France increased the pressure after the restart and finally found the breakthrough in the 69th minute from the penalty spot. Desire Doue produced a brilliant dribble into the penalty area before being brought down by a Paraguayan defender. Although the referee initially waved play on, a VAR review prompted him to award a penalty.
Kylian Mbappe stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick to give France a 1-0 lead.
Paraguay pushed for an equaliser after falling behind but were unable to break through France`s organised defence. Despite 10 minutes of added time, they failed to find the net as France held on to secure a 1-0 victory.
With the win, France advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Morocco. The last-eight clash is scheduled to kick off at 2:00 am Bangladesh time next Friday.
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