Kylian Mbappe delivered for France with a goal and an assist within 6 minutes of second half as they beat Morocco 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal clash on July 9 at Boston Stadium.
Mbappe misses penalty
Mbappe made up for missing the penalty in the first half after a lengthy video review. In the 25th minute, Morocco defender Noussair Mazraoui's mistimed challenge lead to a foul inside the box. Referee Facundo Tello signalled for the penalty but the Frenchman had to wait for a few minutes due to video review. He hesitated and the goalkeeper Yassine Baounou was able to stop the shot that went toward the right corner. This was Mbappe's second attempt from the spot in this World Cup.
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In the first half, France launched relentless attacks. They attempted as many as 13 shots while Morocco missed a golden chance to take the lead. Achraf Hakimi took the free kick from just outside the box. But, his shot went past the right post just before the half-time whistle.
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Mbappe magic outclasses Morocco
France took the lead in the 60th minute with Mbappe scoring the opening goal. Six minutes later, Mbappe and Dembele combined to double France's lead. Dembele got the open space to shoot and Bounou wasn't able to deny him.
While Morocco had the edge in holding the possession, France had way more attempted shots and the ones on target. France attempted 21 and eight of them were on target. Morocco, on the other hand, had eight attempts and only one was on target.
In the previous edition, Morocco conceded two goals against France as well in the semifinal clash. It was their best finish in World Cup history.
Who will France face in World Cup semifinal?
France have a chance to become the third team to play three consecutive World Cup finals. On July 14, France will play their semifinal. Their semifinal opponent will be decided on July 10 at Los Angeles Stadium, Inglewood as Spain go up against Belgium. Spain are yet to concede a goal in the ongoing tournament.