France are set to face Paraguay in a World Cup 2026 qualifying match, with manager Didier Deschamps expected to make changes to his starting lineup. The match, which takes place at the Stade de France, sees Les Bleus take on a Paraguay side known for their giant-killing potential in international football.
Deschamps has a wealth of talent at his disposal, with a squad that includes some of the world's best players. However, with a busy schedule of qualifiers and the need to manage player fitness, rotation is likely. Key players such as Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Olivier Giroud could be rested or given reduced minutes, allowing fringe players to stake their claim for a regular spot.
In goal, Hugo Lloris remains the captain and first-choice goalkeeper, but there is competition from Mike Maignan and Alphonse Areola. The defense, which has been a strength for France in recent tournaments, could see changes with the likes of Lucas Hernandez, Raphael Varane, and Jules Koundé all vying for places. In midfield, the trio of Adrien Rabiot, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Eduardo Camavinga offers a blend of experience and youth, while the attack is led by Mbappé, Griezmann, and Giroud.
Paraguay, meanwhile, will be looking to cause an upset. The South American side has a history of producing strong performances against top European teams, and they will be confident of getting a result. Paraguay's squad includes players from across Europe and South America, with a mix of experience and emerging talent. Their manager, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, will be hoping his side can frustrate France and take advantage of any complacency.
The match is part of the qualification process for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. France are one of the favorites to qualify, having won the World Cup in 2018 and reached the final in 2022. Paraguay, on the other hand, have not qualified for the World Cup since 2010 and will be desperate to end that drought.
In terms of team news, France are expected to be without a few key players due to injury. N'Golo Kanté remains sidelined with a hamstring problem, while Paul Pogba is also out with a knee injury. These absences have opened the door for younger players like Tchouaméni and Camavinga to step up. Paraguay have no major injury concerns, with their squad fully fit and ready for the challenge.
The match is likely to be a tactical battle, with France expected to dominate possession and create chances. Paraguay will likely sit deep and look to hit on the counter-attack, using the pace of their forwards to exploit any gaps in the French defense. Set pieces could also be a key factor, with both teams having players capable of delivering dangerous balls into the box.
For France, this match is an opportunity to build momentum in their qualification campaign. A win would put them in a strong position in their group, while a defeat could raise questions about their ability to perform under pressure. Paraguay, on the other hand, will see this as a chance to prove they can compete with the best in the world and take a step closer to qualifying for their first World Cup in over a decade.
The match is also a chance for Deschamps to experiment with his squad ahead of the 2026 tournament. With several players approaching the end of their careers, the French manager will be looking to integrate younger talent into the team. Players like Koundé, Tchouaméni, and Camavinga represent the future of French football, and this match could be a chance for them to show they are ready for the big stage.
Paraguay, meanwhile, will be looking to build on their recent performances. The team has shown improvement under Barros Schelotto, and they will be confident of causing an upset. The South American side has a strong defensive record, and they will be hoping to keep France at bay while taking their chances at the other end.
Overall, the match promises to be an intriguing contest between two teams with different ambitions. France will be looking to assert their dominance and take a step closer to World Cup qualification, while Paraguay will be hoping to spring a surprise and keep their own qualification hopes alive. With both teams having plenty to play for, fans can expect an entertaining and competitive match.
