France beat Morocco 2-0 to reach World Cup semi-finals

France beat Morocco 2-0 in the World Cup quarter-final in Boston to keep their title bid alive and end Morocco’s run at the last-eight stage.

Kylian Mbappé missed a first-half penalty, but he responded after the interval with France’s opening goal around the 60th minute. Ousmane Dembélé added a second goal about six minutes later to settle the match.

The result sends France into the semi-finals, where they will face the winner of Spain vs Belgium. It also leaves Morocco’s tournament over after another deep run.

Mbappé responds

France were forced to wait for the breakthrough after Mbappé’s missed spot-kick in the first half. But the forward recovered to score the opener in the second half, turning the game in France’s favour.

Dembélé’s finish shortly afterward gave France control and removed any remaining doubt about the outcome.

France move on

Didier Deschamps praised Mbappé after the match, describing him as exemplary. Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi acknowledged France’s superiority while saying he remained proud of his squad.

There were also late fitness concerns for France, with Mbappé showing minor ankle discomfort and midfielder Manu Koné leaving with a knee issue. Both will be monitored ahead of the semi-final.

France have now reached the World Cup semi-finals in three consecutive tournaments, while Morocco’s latest campaign ends in the quarter-finals.