Desire Doue: France Must Show 'Patience and Intensity' to Beat Paraguay

France meet Paraguay in Philadelphia last-16 tie

World Cup favourites France meet Paraguay on July 4. Mbappe is tied for top scorer while Doue backs the squad’s overall quality.

rance's Doue says 'favourite tag doesn't pressure us' ahead of Paraguay clash...

France forward Desire Doue said on Friday that being labeled title favourites isn’t adding any extra pressure as the team prepares for their round-of-16 match against Paraguay.

France started the tournament with a tricky win over Senegal, but have since hit their stride. Wins over Iraq, Norway, and Sweden saw them cruise into the last 16 in convincing fashion.

Speaking at Friday’s press conference ahead of France’s clash with Paraguay, winger Desire Doue stressed that being seen as title favourites isn’t weighing on the team.

“We don't really feel any pressure regarding our status as favourites,” Doue said.

“We're focused on ourselves. We had this favourite status before the tournament, and we'll have it again tomorrow against Paraguay. But being favourites doesn't win matches. We'll need to put everything together to win. We have to be serious.”

France striker Kylian Mbappé has dominated the headlines with 6 goals in 4 games so far, matching Lionel Messi’s tournament record. 

Doue, however, shifted the focus to the strength of the whole French squad rather than just their star forward.

“Defensively, we're very strong. We have excellent midfielders and the best forwards in the world. The coach has built a squad of 26 players, with everyone having a role to play. I'm ready, and whenever I get the chance, I give 100%.”

Facing Paraguay, France will have to lean on “patience and intensity,” Doue said. 

Paraguay made it through a tough group with the USA, Australia, and Turkey as one of the eight best third-placed teams, and knocked Germany out on penalties in the round of 32.

“They're a good team. We've watched match highlights, and they have quality players. They'll be tough defensively; they've picked up a lot of yellow cards. We'll need to be ready and step up.”

France and Paraguay go head-to-head on Saturday, July 4th at Philadelphia Stadium. Kick-off is set for 23:00 CEST.