By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
France became the first team to secure a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Morocco 2-0 in Thursday’s quarter-final at Boston Stadium.
The opening half ended goalless despite France creating the better chances. Kylian Mbappé was denied from the penalty spot by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou after a VAR review awarded France a spot-kick, ensuring the teams went into the break level.
France returned with renewed purpose in the second half and finally broke the deadlock in the 60th minute when Mbappé found the back of the net. Six minutes later, the French captain turned provider, setting up Ousmane Dembélé to double the advantage and put the contest beyond Morocco.
The Atlas Lions battled until the final whistle but could not find a way through a disciplined French defence as Didier Deschamps’ men comfortably booked their place in the last four.
France will now face the winner of Friday’s quarter-final between Spain and Belgium, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Nigerian time. The remaining quarter-finals will see Norway take on England on Saturday at 10:00 p.m. Nigerian time, while defending champions Argentina face Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday at 2:00 a.m. Nigerian time.
With the tournament entering its decisive phase, the race to become world champions intensifies as only seven nations remain in contention for football’s biggest prize.
