France Defeat Morocco 2-0 to Reach World Cup Semi-Finals
France booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals with a convincing 2-0 victory over Morocco in Thursday night's quarter-final clash.
Les Bleus delivered a composed display, overcoming a determined Moroccan side to continue their pursuit of another world title.
France had an opportunity to take the lead midway through the first half after being awarded a penalty. However, captain Kylian Mbappé was denied from the spot by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, whose excellent save kept the score level and gave his side renewed hope.
Lucas Digne also came close before the break, striking the post as France continued to pile on the pressure.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 60th minute when Mbappé made amends for his missed penalty. The forward finished confidently after being set up by Désiré Doué to hand France a deserved lead.
Just six minutes later, France doubled their advantage. This time Mbappé turned provider, delivering the assist for Ousmane Dembélé, who calmly found the back of the net to put the match beyond Morocco's reach.
Morocco attempted to respond with a series of substitutions, but France remained well organised defensively and prevented their opponents from creating clear-cut opportunities.
Despite Morocco enjoying 52 percent possession, they managed only five shots throughout the contest, with just one on target.
France registered 22 attempts on goal and consistently looked the more dangerous attacking side. Goalkeeper Mike Maignan had little to do as the French defence comfortably protected their clean sheet.
The victory sends France into the World Cup semi-finals with confidence, while Morocco bow out after another spirited campaign that showcased their resilience on football's biggest stage.