France missing midfielder Tchouameni for World Cup round of 16 clash with Paraguay
Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has been ruled out of France's round‑of‑16 World Cup match against Paraguay after a hip problem resurfaced during the final training session. Coach Didier Deschamps will replace him with Manu Koné in the starting eleven, adjusting the midfield balance for the game in Philadelphia.
Former Paraguayan goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert ignited controversy on social media, posting a screenshot he attributed to former French striker Christophe Dugarry and claiming Paraguay will face a "team from Africa," a reference to the French side. Chilavert's remarks have drawn criticism for their racist tone.