Asuncion, July 9 -- Kylian Mbappe has become the face of Paraguay's heartbreak after an effigy of the France captain was burned during the country's traditional San Juan festival following Mbappe's side's edge past Paraguay 1-0 in their FIFA World Cup clash.

Mbappe scored the only goal in France's 1-0 Round of 16 win over Paraguay last Saturday and has found himself at the centre of a wave of criticism and backlash from Paraguayan fans.

France's Sports Minister Marina Ferrari condemned the burning of Mbappe's effigy, saying no sporting defeat can justify such acts of violence.

She stressed that sport should promote respect rather than hatred and voiced her full support for the France captain, praising his dignity and exemplary conduct ...