Mbappé: France ready to 'get hands dirty' to win at World Cup
Kylian Mbappé commented on France's extra-time victory over Paraguay in the World Cup round of 16, emphasizing his team's defensive grit.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Bryan Berlin
The French national team secured a hard-fought victory over Paraguay in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, clinching the win in extra time. The match served as a significant test of character for the favorites, who had to adapt to a gritty and physical opponent.
Following the match, France forward Kylian Mbappé spoke candidly about his team's performance and their ability to adapt their style of play:
We knew what kind of match was waiting for us. But I think we played very well today. We showed that we aren't just a team that knows how to play attacking football. If we have to get our hands dirty, we will do it. They thought we would come and play in tuxedos, but we know how to play dirty football too, and we showed that today. Kylian Mbappé
Mbappé stressed that his team does not rely on any single style, noting that the only true objective is winning. He added that the French side successfully countered Paraguay's approach by matching their physical intensity.
France is now shifting its focus to the quarter-finals, where they will face Morocco. The match is scheduled for July 9 in Boston, as the team works on recovery for the next stage of the tournament.