France Survive Paraguay’s ‘Disgraceful’ Dark Arts — And England Are Watching

France survived Paraguay’s ‘disgraceful’ dark arts to win 1-0 and stay on course for the trophy — and England should take note. It was former England goalkeeper Joe Hart who led the criticism, telling BBC One: “Paraguay’s players were an absolute disgrace. If they were on my team, I’d be dragging them off the pitch.” For Tuchel’s England, the game was a preview of the spoiling tactics that could define the knockout rounds.

Why France’s grind is a warning for England

France needed far more than flair to beat Paraguay 1-0, and that is the lesson England must absorb. Having swept aside everyone in their path, the favourites were dragged into a scrappy, cynical battle of time-wasting and gamesmanship. England, so often frustrated by deep-lying defences at major tournaments, will face exactly this kind of low block on their own route through the draw.

Patience and composure won it. France stayed calm against the provocations and took their one clear chance. For Tuchel’s side, keeping cool heads and avoiding needless cards may prove just as decisive as quality in the final third.

France set the standard — and could be England’s biggest obstacle

With this win France reaffirm themselves as one of the favourites for the 2026 World Cup and a possible obstacle in England’s path. The reigning heavyweights showed they can win ugly, the hallmark of every side that goes deep at a World Cup.

For England fans, the message is clear: going all the way means beating both the flair teams and the sides that know how to suffer. With Bellingham and Kane leading the charge, England have the tools — but they must be ready for both kinds of test.

FAQ