Aurelien Tchouameni has been ruled out of France's World Cup last-16 match against Paraguay due to a groin injury. The Real Madrid midfielder sustained the injury during training and will not feature in the game in Philadelphia.
Tchouameni's absence forces change in midfield
Tchouameni had started in all but one of France's World Cup matches this summer, forming a solid partnership with Adrien Rabiot. However, the groin injury has forced manager Didier Deschamps to make one change from the side that defeated Sweden 3-0 in the round of 32 on Tuesday. Manu Kone comes into the starting lineup to replace Tchouameni.
Speaking before the match, France assistant coach Guy Stephan provided details on the injury. “Aurelien Tchouameni has a minor muscle problem in his adductors, although it's a slightly larger area,” Stephan said. “He injured it during training, he'll receive treatment and a few days of rest. It's difficult to say how long it will take, but we all hope it won't be long.”
Potential return for quarter-final
When asked if Tchouameni could return for a potential quarter-final tie against Morocco next Thursday, Stephan added: “It's possible. No guarantees, of course. It's not something that will last very long. But we're also pressed for time; the potential match is in five days.”
In addition to Tchouameni, Marcus Thuram is also absent from the squad due to a calf injury.
Confirmed line-ups and weather concerns
The confirmed line-ups for the match are as follows: France – Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Kone, Rabiot; Dembele, Olise, Barcola; Mbappe. Paraguay – Gill; Caceres, Gustavo Gomez, Velazquez, Alderete, Junior Alonso; Cubas; Almiron, Diego Gomez, Galarza; Enciso.
Ahead of the match, FIFA warned supporters that the game could face delays due to hot weather and potential thunderstorms. Temperatures by the pitch before kick-off reached 38 degrees Celsius, and air conditioning units have been installed by the dugouts. “We are closely monitoring the weather situation in Philadelphia for Matchday 89. At this stage, there is a high risk of delays due to weather conditions,” FIFA said.
