2026 World Cup: ‘They refused to play, offered nothing’ – Leboeuf slams Paraguay
Former France Defender Critiques Paraguay’s Strategy in World Cup Loss
Philadelphia — Former France defender Frank Lebouef has voiced strong criticism of Paraguay’s performance in their 1-0 defeat to the French national team during the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup on Saturday.
Under the management of Didier Deschamps, France dominated the match, controlling 76% of possession and registering ten shots compared to Paraguay’s one. Despite being outplayed, Paraguay was able to defend effectively for much of the game until a foul on substitute Desire Doue led to Kylian Mbappé converting a penalty in the 70th minute, sealing the win for the two-time champions.
Lebouef, who was part of Deschamps’ victorious 1998 World Cup squad, expressed disappointment with Paraguay’s tactical approach. “It’s impossible to play against a team like that. They refused to play,” he said. He added that their defensive strategy did not align with the spirit expected in World Cup competition.
“They didn’t offer anything. They just defend, keep the ball high… We knew that as soon as France scored, it was over because there was nothing to be offered by the Paraguay team,” Lebouef remarked.
Looking ahead, France will face the African champions Morocco, who defeated co-hosts Canada 3-0 in their Round of 16 match, at Boston Stadium in Foxborough on Thursday, July 9.