Germany out on penalties as France prepare for Sweden

Germany are out, the bracket just opened

Paraguay knocked Germany out on penalties in the round of 32 (1). That reshapes your team's theoretical path. A potential heavyweight clash later in the tournament just disappeared. Germany's exit means one less former champion in the way.

Sweden tonight, 23:00 in New York

France face Sweden in the round of 32 on Tuesday, a late kickoff at 23:00 local time in New York (2) (4). Didier Deschamps kept it simple: "We have a capacity for danger, and I want us to keep it" (2). Sweden coach Graham Potter told his players they must "play as if our lives depend on it" (5). He believes his squad is in a strong position to do exactly that.

Saliba: one last fitness test

William Saliba is expected to start against Sweden, but he faces one final pre-match fitness test (3). The Arsenal defender would likely be tasked with handling Viktor Gyokeres if he gets the green light. A late scratch would force Deschamps to shuffle the back line.

Digne and Barcola set to start

Lucas Digne and Bradley Barcola are expected in the starting XI for the Sweden match (4). Both bring width and pace to the flanks. The probable lineup leans into attacking full-back play, a signal that France intend to take the game to Sweden rather than sit back.

Fan reactions

Swedish TV stirred the pot by publishing a combined France–Sweden starting XI ahead of the match, and the picks are getting plenty of attention. Meanwhile, Gary Lineker called this Germany side one of the weakest he has ever seen, and Kai Havertz did not take it well: "We already have many pundits in our country. And if people from other countries start talking as well, then that's enough at some point."