Outstanding French, fearless Paraguayans

The offensive around Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola and Désiré Doué played particularly well. All 13 goals so far have been scored by these five, ten of which were scored alone Mbappé and Dembele’s. In the 21st century, only Brazil’s attacking trio of Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho was more successful at the 2002 World Cup with 15 goals.

Michael shines this time Olise with four assists and the most offensive actions (38) of all players in the tournament so far. The breadth of the French squad is also astonishing, especially on the offensive. On the left wing it is probably a matter of taste whether Barcola or Doué starts. Both cause danger with a lot of speed and quick dribbling. Didier Deschamps, Manchester City’s Rayan Cherki and Crystal Palace photographer Jean-Philippe Mateta are also available.

To the conquerors of the DFB team Paraguay So concentrated offensive power awaits. The South Americans have a compact defense, team spirit and tough duels. This should probably also be the formula for the next World Cup miracle.

No fear

The key player in the “Albirroja” offensive is Julio Enciso, who contributed to all the goals with two goals and one assist. “We are not afraid of anyone. We know what we can do and will harm anyone who comes across us,” said the 22-year-old.

France’s coach Didier Deschamps is warned about the round of 16 against the White-Reds: “I looked at Paraguay: what they have achieved is no accident. They are a typical South American team, very strong in duels, very tough, and they also have very good players.”