Paraguay is seeking historic revenge. La Albirroja will once again face France in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, recalling their dramatic encounter at France 1998, when Laurent Blanc scored the golden goal in extra time to eliminate the South Americans.

That night remains one of the most memorable in Paraguayan football history because of the team's heroic defensive display and the unforgettable image of José Luis Chilavert lifting up his teammates after a performance full of courage and pride. Nearly three decades later, history has brought Paraguay back against Les Bleus, with the French once again entering as favorites while La Albirroja prepares to compete through discipline, determination, and belief.

The present-day story also features a goalkeeper as the team's biggest star. Orlando Gill arrives as one of the tournament's standout performers after his outstanding display against Germany, where he played a decisive role in helping Paraguay pull off one of the biggest upsets of the Round of 32. Now he faces an even more dangerous attack led by a France side that is coming off a dominant victory over Sweden and is looking to strengthen its status as a title contender.

Predicted Paraguay Lineup

Formation: 4-4-2

12 Orlando Gill
4 Juan José Cáceres
15 Gustavo Gómez (c)
13 José Canale
6 Júnior Alonso
10 Miguel Almirón
16 Damián Bobadilla
14 Andrés Cubas
23 Matías Galarza
21 Gabriel Ávalos
19 Julio Enciso

Paraguay Analysis

Paraguay is expected to line up in a compact, disciplined, and physical 4-4-2 formation. Gustavo Alfaro's side understands it cannot afford to leave space against a team with France's pace and individual quality. The priority will be to stay compact, close down the central channels, and force Les Bleus to attack from wide areas.

The defense will be anchored by Gustavo Gómez, whose leadership, aerial dominance, and organization will be crucial. Alongside him, José Canale must remain fully focused throughout the match, especially against the intelligent movement of the French forwards. In goal, Orlando Gill will once again be a key figure after emerging as the hero against Germany.

In midfield, Andrés Cubas and Damián Bobadilla face the difficult task of disrupting France's passing rhythm and preventing the opposition from finding space between the lines. Out wide, Miguel Almirón and Matías Galarza will be expected to combine defensive commitment with quick counterattacking runs.

Up front, the partnership of Gabriel Ávalos and Julio Enciso gives Paraguay an intriguing blend of strength, movement, and creativity. Ávalos can occupy central defenders and win long balls, while Enciso will be responsible for providing flair, ball progression, and long-range shooting.

The key for Paraguay will be surviving France's spells of dominance while making the most of every transition. If the South Americans can keep the match tight, capitalize on set pieces, and display the same mental resilience they showed against Germany, La Albirroja will have every reason to believe another historic World Cup night is within reach at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

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