Mbappé and Dembélé Fire France into 2026 World Cup Semifinals
Sport
France became the first team to reach the 2026 World Cup semifinals after a convincing 2–0 victory over Morocco. Didier Deschamps' side controlled the quarterfinal and sealed the result with two goals in the second half.
France established an advantage in midfield from the opening stages, limiting Morocco's attacking opportunities. The last African team remaining in the tournament kept the match goalless for an extended period, largely thanks to goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Bounou saved a first-half penalty from Kylian Mbappé. However, the France captain opened the scoring in the 60th minute with a precise strike from outside the penalty area. It was Mbappé's eighth goal of the tournament, drawing him level with Lionel Messi in the race for the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot.
Six minutes later, Ousmane Dembélé doubled France's lead. Morocco attempted to change the course of the match, but the French defence prevented them from finding a way back.
Mbappé left the pitch in the 77th minute with an ankle problem. Head coach Didier Deschamps later said the injury was not serious.
France have now reached the World Cup semifinals for the third consecutive tournament. They will face the winner of Spain versus Belgium on July 14.
Bounou saved a first-half penalty from Kylian Mbappé. However, the France captain opened the scoring in the 60th minute with a precise strike from outside the penalty area. It was Mbappé's eighth goal of the tournament, drawing him level with Lionel Messi in the race for the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot.
Six minutes later, Ousmane Dembélé doubled France's lead. Morocco attempted to change the course of the match, but the French defence prevented them from finding a way back.
Mbappé left the pitch in the 77th minute with an ankle problem. Head coach Didier Deschamps later said the injury was not serious.
France have now reached the World Cup semifinals for the third consecutive tournament. They will face the winner of Spain versus Belgium on July 14.
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