France Eliminate Morocco to Become the First 2026 FIFA World Cup Semi-Finalist

France secured their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarter-finals. Les Bleus delivered a dominant second-half performance to end Morocco's impressive tournament run and book their place among the final four teams.

The match, played at Boston Stadium and officiated by Argentine referee Facundo Tello, saw France control possession for much of the contest despite Morocco's disciplined defensive approach.

France created dangerous opportunities from the opening minutes. In the fourth minute, Kylian Mbappe tested goalkeeper Yassine Bounou with a powerful long-range effort before Dayot Upamecano's header from the resulting corner was also brilliantly saved.

The biggest chance of the first half arrived in the 28th minute when France earned a penalty after Mbappe was brought down inside the box. However, Bounou once again proved to be Morocco's hero, denying the French superstar from the spot and keeping the match scoreless at halftime.

France finally broke the deadlock in the 60th minute. Mbappe collected the ball near the edge of the area, cut inside, and calmly placed his shot into the far corner to give his side a deserved lead.

Only six minutes later, Ousmane Dembele doubled France's advantage with a precise low strike from outside the penalty area. Although Bounou got a hand to the ball, he could not prevent it from crossing the line.

Morocco struggled to mount a comeback during the closing stages as France comfortably protected their lead to secure a 2-0 victory.

France will now face the winner of the Spain vs Belgium quarter-final in the semi-finals.

Mbappe Continues Chasing Messi's World Cup Record

Despite missing a penalty, Mbappe scored his 20th career FIFA World Cup goal, moving within one goal of Lionel Messi's tournament record of 21.

The only concern for France came late in the match when Mbappe went down injured in the 76th minute and was substituted by Jean-Philippe Mateta. The extent of the injury is expected to become clearer after further medical examinations.