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Kylian Mbappé scored his seventh goal of the 2026 World Cup from the penalty spot, France scraped past Paraguay 1-0 in the Round of 16, and then the real fireworks started. The French superstar publicly accused Paraguay of playing dirty, telling reporters that his side also knows how to “get our hands dirty” if opponents want to take that route.
The match, played on July 4 at Philadelphia Stadium, featured approximately 30 fouls committed by Paraguay. Not a single yellow card was issued.
**What actually happened on the pitch**
Paraguay deployed an aggressive, foul-heavy strategy designed to disrupt France’s attacking rhythm. France managed just one goal despite dominating possession, and that came from the penalty spot. Mbappé converted to extend his tournament-leading scoring run to seven goals.
Mbappé’s post-match comments were pointed. Rather than simply criticizing Paraguay, he signaled France’s willingness to match the physicality. “We can also get our hands dirty, we know how to do it,” he said.
France advances to the quarterfinals with their tournament talisman on seven goals. Paraguay goes home.
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