FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — France has faced its most significant challenge yet and has now moved on to the World Cup semifinals, with the opportunity to achieve something truly remarkable.
Kylian Mbappé, who seemed visibly frustrated at times, faced a tough challenge against Morocco’s defensive strategy. He missed an early penalty and had trouble finding space. However, he eventually made a breakthrough in the second half, leaving Morocco without a solution.
The moment was quite simple yet magical, something only a player like Mbappé could conjure. Positioned just outside the box, he received a volleyed pass and, with a deft right-footed strike, curled the ball past Issa Diop and Yassin Bounou, effectively unraveling Morocco’s defense.
The first goal, coming after 60 minutes, felt crucial, especially since Morocco hadn’t shown much in terms of attacking prowess before that point.
As Morocco was compelled to push forward for a response, the momentum shifted. Just minutes later, Ousmane Dembélé netted a second goal for France after a remarkable solo run, leaving little room for a Moroccan comeback.
Morocco, missing key striker Ismael Saibari, had opted for a defensive approach, which worked initially but fell apart as they had to open up their play. Azzedine Ounahi’s shot in the 83rd minute marked the first time French keeper Mike Maignan was truly tested all afternoon.
Next, France will face the winner of the Spain vs. Belgium match in Dallas on Tuesday. If they triumph, they could become the first nation since Brazil (1994-2002) to reach the finals three times in a row—a feat only matched by West Germany (1982-90).
Even the legends of those earlier teams, including the Brazilian squads of the 1950s to 70s, don’t quite compare to Mbappé. With 20 goals in just 20 World Cup matches—eight of which came in this year’s games—he seems poised for even more growth.
The match began with France controlling play, which momentarily boosted Morocco’s confidence.
Morocco’s strategy had its moments, but when it faltered, Bounou, the Moroccan keeper, was there to clean up. France enjoyed considerable possession but needed to break through a stifling defense. While players like Dembélé, Mbappé, and Michael Olise struggled to find their rhythm, they managed to create opportunities.
France’s best chance in the first half came when Nousser Mazroui, unexpectedly placed at center-back, brought down an assertive Mbappé during a rare counter from Morocco. After a lengthy VAR review, Mbappé got back up to shoot, only to find Bounou waiting to make the save.
In the late second half, Douai’s chance climbed from Morocco’s possession after Bounou made an excellent save. Ounahi’s midfield distribution allowed Douai to break forward for a shot, which Bounou parried.
Throughout the possession sequences, France really struggled to penetrate Morocco’s low block. As the halftime whistle blew, Morocco held the momentum, despite being outshot 13-1— with their only attempt being a free kick from Achraf Hakimi in stoppage time.
The strategy might have worked against a less talented opponent. But France possesses the skill and creativity to dismantle defenses through both tactical maneuvers and pure brilliance.
Sometimes, they simply rely on the magic of Mbappé. On Thursday, France will travel from Boston to Dallas, aiming not just to play but also to make history.
