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Joe Hart criticizes Paraguay's tactics in World Cup defeat to France

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 11:49 AM

Last updated Jul 5, 2026

Joe Hart criticizes Paraguay's tactics in World Cup defeat to France

Summary

In a contentious World Cup last-16 match, Joe Hart expressed strong criticism of Paraguay's physical tactics during their defeat to France. The match, held at Philadelphia Stadium, featured controversial moments, including multiple incidents involving fouls by Paraguayan players that went unpunished. Hart described the situation as infuriating, citing players like Andres Cubas and Gabriel Avalos for dangerous challenges. He also pointed out that Paraguayan player Gustavo Velazquez scuffed the penalty spot before Kylian Mbappé scored the only goal of the match. Despite the criticism, Paraguay's coach Gustavo Alfaro defended his team's actions amid the tension on the pitch.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Joe Hart criticized Paraguay's physical play against France.
•Match saw multiple unpunished fouls by Paraguayan players.
•Kylian Mbappé scored the match's only goal.
•Controversial tactics included scuffing the penalty spot.
•Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro defended his team's actions.

Latest Updates

11:49 AMYahoo Sports — Paraguay's approach 'really got my blood boiling' - Joe Hart

What they're saying

"
Paraguay’s physical approach in a bad-tempered World Cup last-16 defeat to France had former England goalkeeper Joe Hart’s “blood boiling. ” Uzbekistan referee Ilgiz Tantashev was criticized for not booking any South American players despite Andres Cubas clattering Adrien Rabiot, Juan Jose Caceres kicking out at Kylian Mbappé and Gabriel Avalos elbowing Dayot Upamecano in the stomach.
— Yahoo Sports

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