Paraguay

Late goals defined the World Cup round-of-32, showcasing thrilling finishes and strategic mastery.

France have scored 16 goals — and conceded just 4 — across seven matches, yet their first tournament defeat to Spain exposed a finishing vulnerability that England may look to exploit. England have won five of seven, with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane sharing 12 goals between them, but conceded eight times — twice as many as France. Both teams score heavily from the second half onward. Both arrive wounded. Sportami identifies the patterns that will shape the World Cup's third-place playoff.

France are unbeaten with six wins. Spain are unbeaten with five wins and a draw. Identical shot volumes. Opposite scoring rhythms. France's shot production has increased through the knockout rounds while their finishing efficiency has declined. Spain, meanwhile, have directed a much larger share of their attempts on target. Sportami computes the patterns traditional previews rarely uncover.

Paraguay pull off a stunning World Cup upset, eliminating Germany on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the Round of 32. Despite Germany's 75% possession dominance, Julio Enciso's 42nd-minute opener for Paraguay forced the favorites onto the back foot. Kai Havertz equalized in the 54th minute, but neither side could find a winner through extra time. Paraguay held their nerve in the shootout, converting 4 of their penalties while Germany missed one, sending the South Americans through to face the winner of France vs Sweden in the Round of 16.

Paraguay and Australia play to a 0-0 draw, characterized by a defensive stalemate with neither side able to capitalize on limited opportunities. Despite Australia managing five shots on target compared to Paraguay's two, both defenses hold firm, resulting in a match without a decisive turning point.

France secures a 1-0 victory over Paraguay, with Kylian Mbappé's decisive goal in the 70th minute stemming from a well-executed set piece. Dominating possession with 76%, France effectively controlled the match, limiting Paraguay's opportunities and capitalizing on their set-piece prowess to clinch the win.

Paraguay executes a counterattacking masterclass to secure a 1-0 victory over Türkiye, with Matías Galarza Fonda's early goal in the 2nd minute proving decisive. Despite Türkiye's overwhelming 79% possession, Paraguay's disciplined defensive structure and efficient transitions stifle the hosts, highlighting the effectiveness of their strategic approach.

The United States secures a 2-0 victory over Australia, leveraging 62% possession to control the match's tempo. Cameron Burgess's 11th-minute goal sets the tone, while Alex Freeman's standout performance ensures dominance. This possession advantage stifles Australia's ability to transition effectively, dictating the game's flow and limiting their offensive opportunities.

The United States secures a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay, establishing control from the 7th minute with Damián Bobadilla's opening goal. Folarin Balogun shines as the hero, contributing significantly to the team's offensive prowess. The U.S. outmatches Paraguay with a 6-1 advantage in shots on target, underscoring their control dominance throughout the match.