Les Bleus Carve a Path to the Final

France entered the semifinal as the clear favourites, sitting atop Group D with a flawless record until a surprise loss to Tunisia. Morocco, meanwhile, had shocked the world by topping Group F and eliminating Belgium and Spain on the way to the last four. The stage was set for a clash of contrasting styles: Les Bleus’ polished, high‑tempo machine versus the Lions of Atlas’ disciplined, counter‑punching grit.

The first half was a tactical chess match, ending 0‑0 as both sides probed for weaknesses. France’s midfield, led by the ever‑reliable Griezmann, kept possession but struggled to break through Morocco’s compact block. The Moroccans, buoyed by their historic run, looked dangerous on the break but lacked the final punch to test Hugo Lloris seriously.

After the break, France turned up the heat. A swift interchange down the right flank saw Mbappé dart inside and slip a low cross to Giroud, who flicked the ball into the net for the opener. The goal shattered Morocco’s resolve; their previously steadfast defence began to crack under the relentless French pressure. Twenty minutes later, a quick counter‑attack unleashed by Kanté found Benzema streaking into the box, and the striker coolly slotted home the second.

FRANCE'S DEFENSE WAS A WALL, with Varane and Kimpembe snuffing out every Moroccan foray, while MOROCCO'S ATTACK WAS TOOTHLESS, failing to register a single shot on target after the break. The scoreline flat‑lined at 2‑0, sealing France’s place in the final and ending Morocco’s fairy‑tale run.

In the standings, this victory propels France into the World Cup final, where they will await the winner of the other semifinal. For Morocco, the loss means elimination from the tournament, but their historic achievement—reaching the semifinals remains a source of pride for African football. The result also confirms France’s status as the tournament’s dominant force, leaving little doubt that they are the team to beat.