In a decisive match held at Boston's Gillette Stadium, France clinched a 2-0 win against Morocco on Thursday, securing their spot in the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup. The French team dominated the second half, ensuring their advancement to the next stage.
The match reached a peak of tension in the 28th minute when Kylian Mbappé missed a penalty. The penalty was awarded after a VAR check, but Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou managed to save it with a mid-height stop.
Despite the setback, the French captain redeemed himself in the 60th minute with a field goal that opened the scoring. Just six minutes later, Ousmane Dembélé sealed the game by scoring the second goal, extinguishing any hopes of a Moroccan comeback.
Statistics showcased France's dominance in creating threats, with 21 shots compared to Morocco's mere four, and eight shots on target against Morocco's single attempt. Although Morocco maintained a slight edge in possession (52% to 48%), they failed to convert it into significant opportunities.
Morocco's I. Diop received a yellow card in the 63rd minute, while France concluded the match without any bookings. Mbappé was named the best player of the match, tying with Lionel Messi as the top scorer of the 2026 World Cup, each with eight goals. This puts them ahead of Erling Haaland (seven) and Harry Kane (six).
On a historical note, the French forward now boasts 20 World Cup goals, just one short of Messi's record of 21, surpassing both Miroslav Klose (16) and Ronaldo Nazário (15).
The outcome mirrors the 2022 Qatar semifinal, where France also defeated Morocco 2-0, marking the first occasion an African team reached that stage in a World Cup.
With this victory, France extends their winning streak to seven consecutive matches in the tournament, aiming for their third consecutive World Cup final. They will face the winner of the Spain vs. Belgium match, scheduled for Friday, July 10, at Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium, with the semifinal set for Tuesday, July 14, at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Reflecting on the team's achievement, Mbappé expressed, “We are aware of what’s at stake. Being in a World Cup semifinal is incredibly significant for us. We must keep performing at this level and continue on this path. We've taken another step forward.”
France's Road to the 2026 World Cup Semifinals
How did France perform statistically against Morocco?
France demonstrated clear dominance with 21 shots, eight on target, compared to Morocco's four shots and one on target. Despite having less possession, France was more effective in creating scoring opportunities.
Who were the standout players in the France vs. Morocco match?
Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé were key players, both scoring crucial goals to secure France's victory. Mbappé was also named the best player of the match.
What are the historical implications of France's victory over Morocco?
This victory echoes the 2022 Qatar semifinal outcome, where France also defeated Morocco 2-0. It highlights France's continued dominance and also marks a significant achievement for Morocco, as they reached the semifinal stage for the first time in 2022.