Paraguay's World Cup ends as Mbappé and senator clash

Paraguay 0–1 France, World Cup run ends

It is over. Paraguay exit the 2026 World Cup after a 0–1 loss to France in the round of 16 on Saturday (2) (3). Kylian Mbappé scored the only goal that sent your team home.

The tournament had already delivered one of its biggest shocks when your side knocked out Germany on penalties in the round of 32. José Canale buried the decisive spot-kick, President Santiago Peña declared a national holiday, and the country believed.

Mbappé broke that belief. A tight match against one of the tournament favorites, decided by a single moment. Your team did not embarrass itself. It just ran into France.

Mbappé calls Paraguayan senator 'a despicable woman'

The fallout turned ugly. Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla launched a racist attack on Kylian Mbappé after the final whistle, and Mbappé did not stay silent.

"A despicable woman," Mbappé wrote. "You do not represent Paraguay, a country that has exuded passion and honor throughout the tournament" (3).

The French Football Federation has filed a lawsuit against Amarilla. The FFF described her comments as "totally abject and unacceptable" and said they are "criminal and reprehensible" (3). The Paraguayan government has also issued an official response, distancing itself from the senator's remarks.

Fan reactions

Paraguay fans online are caught between pride in the team's run and anger at Amarilla. Many supporters are distancing themselves from her comments, pointing to Mbappé's own acknowledgment that she does not represent the country. The government's official response has been widely shared. Read the full statement here.