France advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after defeating Morocco 2-0 on July 9, 2026. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the 60th minute with a curled strike, followed by a goal from Ousmane Dembélé in the 66th minute to secure the victory and eliminate Morocco from the tournament.
Mbappé’s Record-Breaking Performance Against Morocco
According to match data, Mbappé became the first French player to be involved in 100 goals for the national team, combining 64 goals and 36 assists.
The match was not without friction for the star forward. Mbappé missed a penalty in the first half after a lengthy VAR review that appeared to unsettle him, resulting in a shot that Moroccan goalkeeper Bounou easily handled. Despite this, Mbappé finished the game with a goal and an assist, bringing his World Cup tally to 11 goal contributions (8 goals and 3 assists) across the tournament.
Tactical Breakdown: French Dominance vs. Moroccan Struggle
France controlled the tempo for the full 90 minutes, creating 13 clear scoring opportunities. Morocco, by contrast, struggled to mount a meaningful offense. Their first genuine chance didn’t arrive until the first-half stoppage time, when Achraf Hakimi’s free kick failed to threaten the goal.
The deadlock broke in the 60th minute. Mbappé found space despite being marked by four defenders, curling the ball past Bounou to make it 1-0. Six minutes later, Ousmane Dembélé doubled the lead with a powerful strike following an assist from Mbappé. Dembélé has now found significant success in Boston, having previously scored a hat-trick against Norway.
Key Match Events Timeline
- 60′: Goal – Kylian Mbappé (1-0)
- 63′: Yellow Card – Issa Diop
- 66′: Goal – Ousmane Dembélé (2-0)
- 77′: Substitution – Mbappé replaced by Jean-Philippe Mateta
Injury Concerns and Squad Rotations
A moment of tension occurred in the 77th minute when Mbappé was substituted. Observers noted he was limping and had ice applied to his right ankle during a hydration break. However, reports indicate he left the pitch waving to the crowd, suggesting the substitution was a precautionary measure rather than a severe injury.
Morocco attempted to shift momentum with several substitutions. Coach Walid Regragui introduced Zakaria El Ouahdi, giving the Genk player his first World Cup minutes, alongside Brahim Díaz and Chemsdine Talbi. Despite these changes, France’s defense remained strong.
The Road to the Semi-Finals: France’s Next Opponent
France will play their semi-final match on July 14, coinciding with Quatorze Juillet, the French national holiday. They will face either Belgium or Spain, depending on the outcome of the other bracket.
The French squad enters this next phase with significant momentum. While Michael Olise remained a threat and created several opportunities, he has yet to find the scoresheet in this tournament, leaving the bulk of the offensive production to the Mbappé-Dembélé partnership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the goals against Morocco?
Kylian Mbappé scored in the 60th minute and Ousmane Dembélé scored in the 66th minute.
Is Kylian Mbappé injured?
Mbappé was substituted in the 77th minute after showing signs of ankle discomfort and using ice, but he appeared optimistic as he left the field.
What is Mbappé’s record for France?
He is the first French player to reach 100 goal contributions for the national team (64 goals and 36 assists).
When is the France semi-final?
The match is scheduled for July 14, the French national holiday.
Who do you think can stop the French momentum in the semi-finals—Belgium or Spain? Let us know your predictions in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for live World Cup updates.
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