FIFA WC 2026: France 1–0 Paraguay; Morocco 3–0 Canada — quarterfinals set

Philadelphia/Houston: Kylian Mbappé's penalty midway through the second half sent two-time champion France into the World Cup quarterfinals as they beat Paraguay 1-0, while Morocco progressed with a 3-0 victory over co-host Canada, becoming the first team to reach the last eight.

In Philadelphia, Mbappé converted from the spot in the 69th minute after a VAR review awarded France a penalty when Desire Doué was adjudged to have been fouled in the box. The strike was Mbappé's seventh goal of the 2026 tournament, moving him level with Lionel Messi in goals scored and one behind Argentina's all-time World Cup mark of 20. It was also his record-extending 11th knockout-stage World Cup goal and made him the first player to score in the Round of 16 at three consecutive tournaments.

France controlled possession for long spells but found Paraguay’s disciplined, physical defence difficult to break down. Orlando Gill, Paraguay’s goalkeeper, kept the score level through much of the match with several saves, including a pushed-away effort from Manu Kone. France coach Didier Deschamps praised his side’s focus against a stubborn opponent, saying Paraguay "used every trick in the book" but France stayed concentrated to reach the quarterfinals.

Mbappé reflected on the test, adding that the team learned from the contest and are now looking ahead to a quarterfinal meeting with Morocco at Boston Stadium on July 9.

In Houston, Morocco defeated Canada 3-0 to become the tournament’s first quarterfinalist. Azzedine Ounahi scored twice and Soufiane Rahimi added a late third as Morocco overturned an earlier period of Canadian dominance and sealed the win. Morocco had earlier eliminated South Africa to reach the knockout phase and then defeated co-hosts Canada to continue their run.

Despite the loss, Canada, making its first World Cup knockout appearance and earning its first-ever World Cup point as co-hosts, left with pride. Defender Alistair Johnston and coach Jesse Marsch praised the squad’s effort and the cultural impact the campaign has had at home. Marsch said the tournament should inspire structural growth in Canadian soccer, asking how the nation can convert this momentum into deeper youth development and consistent performances.

Canada midfielder Stephen Eustaquio said the team had been outstanding until halftime and lamented a set-piece lapse that changed the match. After the game the squad posted an emotional message to fans, thanking the country for its support and reflecting on the tournament’s legacy.

With Morocco now through and France advancing, the draw sets a high-stakes quarterfinal clash between the two nations on July 9 in Boston.

(Inputs from IANS)