France's Doue plays down World Cup favourites status

France's Desire Doue during Friday's press conference

France forward Desire Doue said during Friday's press conference that the role of title favourites does not make the team feel any additional pressure ahead of their round-of-16 match against Paraguay.

France opened their tournament with a somewhat difficult win over Senegal, but steamrolled their way to the round of 16 by beating Iraq, Norway, and Sweden in confident fashion.

During Friday's press conference ahead of France's match against Paraguay, winger Desire Doue underlined that the role of title favourites does not hurt 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 Mbappe has written headlines by scoring 6 goals in 4 games so far, tying Lionel Messi for the most in the tournament. Doue put an emphasis on the overall quality of the French squad instead of focusing on just their lead man.

"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%."

Against Paraguay, who survived a group with the USA, Australia, and Turkey by finishing among the eight best third-placed teams and eliminated Germany on penalties in the round of 32, France will need to build on "patience and intensity", said Doue.

"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 will face off on Saturday, July 4th, in Philadelphia Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 23.00 CEST.