Paraguay went 'way too far' and their behaviour was 'disgusting', according to BBC Sport pundits Thomas Hitzlsperger, Joe Hart and Micah Richards, who called out the South American side's tactics and players during their World Cup last-16 match against France.
The trio, providing analysis for BBC's coverage of the 2026 tournament, did not hold back as they watched Paraguay attempt to get under France's skin. Their criticism came after a series of incidents that left the pundits visibly appalled.
“BBC pundits Thomas Hitzlsperger, Joe Hart and Micah Richards call Paraguay's World Cup tactics 'disgusting' and 'way too far'.”
While the specifics of Paraguay's approach were not detailed in the broadcast, the strength of the condemnation from three former professionals highlighted the extent of the provocation. Hitzlsperger, a former Germany international, Hart, the ex-England goalkeeper, and Richards, the former Manchester City defender, were unanimous in their disapproval.
The match, a knockout stage fixture at the 2026 World Cup, saw Paraguay trying to unsettle the French side, but the pundits deemed their methods unacceptable. 'Disgusting' and 'way too far' were the terms used by the BBC panel, setting the tone for a debate that will likely continue long after the final whistle.
Paraguay's tactics have now become a talking point, with the pundits' strong words adding to the scrutiny. The incident raises questions about the limits of gamesmanship in high-stakes international football.