France is in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup, with every minute counting to save their World Cup ambitions against Paraguay on Saturday, July 4.
Didier Deschamps' team has advanced through the group stage as one of the tournament's favorites and has beaten Sweden in the Round of 32. In contrast to the group stage, all matches are winners' matches, and France's destiny with Paraguay will be decided one way or the other.
Let's look at what each of these outcomes means.
What Happens If France Wins Against Paraguay?
France will advance to the World Cup quarterfinals if they beat Paraguay.
Whether it's in normal time, extra time, or a penalty shootout, it doesn't matter. A victory in any of the four games will put Les Bleus in the final eight, where they will meet Morocco, who knocked off Canada on Saturday.
What Happens If France Draws Against Paraguay?
A draw after 90 minutes does not eliminate either team.
Rather, the game will proceed to 30 minutes of overtime, with each half being 15 minutes. In case of a tie after extra time, the winner will be determined by a penalty shootout.
The team that wins the penalty shootout will go to the quarterfinals.
What Happens If France Loses Against Paraguay?
Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images
That would put an end to their tournament and their dreams of securing another world title in a rich history.
Meanwhile, Paraguay will be hoping for one of the biggest shocks in the knockout stage. France has a lot more experience on the grandest stage, but knockout football has proven time and time again that reputation doesn't always mean anything.
Deschamps' side are favorites as Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise are expected to spearhead the French attack.
However, Aurelien Tchouameni will reportedly miss the clash with a thigh injury. But Paraguay is aware that a tight, competitive game with France could give them a better chance of a big upset.
The formula for France is simple: victory, and they move on to face Morocco; defeat, and they go home.
