France advanced to the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a hard-fought victory over a determined Paraguay side, while co-hosts Mexico prepare for a storm-lashed showdown with England amid off-field controversy.
France grind past spirited Paraguay
Didier Deschamps' side needed resilience and a moment of quality to see off a Paraguay outfit that refused to lie down in the last-16 clash. The reigning world champions struggled to impose their rhythm against a compact and physical opponent but got the job done to keep their title defence alive.
Speaking on The Guardian’s World Cup Daily podcast, French football expert Philippe Auclair observed:
“France didn’t hit top gear but they showed the hallmark of a great side—knowing how to win when not at their best. That was a real test.”
Max Rushden, Barry Glendenning, Archie Rhind-Tutt and Barney Ronay joined Auclair to dissect a match that often threatened to boil over. Paraguay’s aggressive pressing rattled the French midfield, but ultimately the European side’s superior depth told. Kylian Mbappé’s searing pace and a clinical finish from the bench proved decisive.
France now await the winners of an all-South American quarter-final, with confidence that their mix of youth and experience can carry them deep into the tournament.
What awaits England in Mexico?
England’s last-16 tie against co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium is brewing into one of the most anticipated clashes of the round—but it’s not just the opposition that threatens to derail Gareth Southgate’s men.
Storm clouds brewing
Hurricane season is in full swing, and forecasters are tracking a major storm system that could hit Mexico City right around the scheduled kick-off. Sky Sports’ Rob Dorsett reported that the expected heavy rain and strong winds have raised the possibility of a delay or even a postponement. Thomas Tuchel’s camp has been studying the forecasts, with the England manager hinting at frustration:
“There’s been some confusion around the kick-off time and what might happen. We’re preparing for everything.”
Weather disruptions could turn the match into a lottery, adding another layer of unpredictability to a fixture already brimming with tension.
Watches and ethics
Off the pitch, Mexico have been forced to return $1 million worth of Rolex watches gifted by American YouTuber Stephen Deleonardis to every player and staff member. FIFA’s Code of Ethics prohibits gifts beyond “symbolic or trivial value,” and after a meeting with Deleonardis on Monday, the squad swiftly handed back the timepieces.
While the incident has done little to disrupt the hosts’ focus—they dispatched Ecuador in the previous round—it does add to the circus surrounding a Mexico side that thrives on emotion and fan fervour. The Azteca will be a cauldron, and England must navigate both the elements and a nation’s expectations.
How to watch
Broadcast details for the England-Mexico clash are still being finalised in several regions. In the UK, the match is expected to be shown on either BBC or ITV, with streaming on iPlayer and ITVX respectively, though the specific channel has not yet been confirmed. In the US, Fox Sports and Telemundo hold the English- and Spanish-language rights. Check local listings for official broadcasters in other territories.
Key Takeaways
- France advanced without hitting top form, underlining their credentials as genuine contenders to retain the trophy.
- Paraguay impressed with their discipline and physicality, pushing the champions all the way and earning respect.
- England’s clash with Mexico could be heavily affected by severe weather, with a potential delay or postponement on the cards.
- Mexico’s watch controversy highlights the strict enforcement of FIFA’s ethics rules, but the hosts remain a formidable opponent at the Azteca.
- Quarter-final line-up is taking shape, with France waiting and the England-Mexico winner set for a mouth-watering tie.
Quick Facts
What: FIFA World Cup 2026 Last-16 and Quarter-Final Build-Up
France vs Paraguay: France won, reaching the quarter-finals
England vs Mexico: Scheduled for Sunday night local time at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
Weather: Hurricane and storm warnings in effect; possible delay or postponement
Mexico watches: $1m in Rolex watches returned due to FIFA ethics rules
Where to watch (UK): BBC or ITV (TBC); streaming on iPlayer/ITVX
Where to watch (US): Fox Sports / Telemundo
Source: The Guardian World Cup Daily, BBC Sport, Sky Sports
