Kylian Mbappé has put the remaining FIFA World Cup 2026 contenders on notice, declaring that France are more than capable of matching physical, defensive opponents — even if it means getting their hands dirty.

The France captain made the remarks after Les Bleus edged past Paraguay 1-0 in their round-of-16 encounter, securing a quarterfinal berth in what was a stubborn, hard-fought contest.

Penalty seals a gritty victory

Paraguay arrived with a clear game plan: defend deep, stay compact, and frustrate a France side expected to play expansive football. For long stretches, it worked. Mbappé finally broke the deadlock in the 70th minute, converting a penalty awarded after a foul on substitute Desire Doue.

The goal proved to be the only one of the game — enough to send France through to the quarterfinals, where they will face Morocco.

'We know how to play ugly football'

Mbappé was unambiguous in his message to the sides still standing at the tournament.