France advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals after defeating Morocco 2-0 in a controlled and professional quarterfinal performance in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the 60th minute, before Ousmane Dembélé doubled the lead six minutes later to end Morocco’s impressive tournament run.
The match carried extra emotion because it was a repeat of the 2022 World Cup semifinal, when France also defeated Morocco by the same scoreline. This time, Morocco entered the game with confidence after strong knockout performances, but France showed why they remain one of the tournament’s most complete and dangerous teams.
France started the match with greater attacking intent and created early pressure through Mbappé, Dembélé and their midfield runners. Mbappé had the first major warning shot in the opening minutes, but Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and the defensive line remained alert.
The biggest moment of the first half came after Mbappé was brought down in the penalty area by Noussair Mazraoui. After a lengthy video review, the referee confirmed the penalty. Mbappé stepped up in the 28th minute, but Bounou guessed correctly and saved his effort, keeping Morocco level and giving the Atlas Lions a major psychological boost.
Despite the miss, France continued to dominate the attacking numbers. They controlled possession, circulated the ball quickly and forced Morocco to defend deep for long periods. Morocco’s best first-half opportunity came just before halftime, when Achraf Hakimi sent a free kick narrowly wide of the post.
After the break, France maintained pressure and finally found the breakthrough in the 60th minute. Morocco failed to fully clear the ball, allowing Mbappé to collect possession near the edge of the area. He took a few steps forward and placed a precise finish just inside the far post to make it 1-0.
The goal changed the shape of the match. Morocco had to push higher, but France immediately punished the extra space. In the 66th minute, Mbappé turned provider, drawing defenders with his movement before laying the ball back to Dembélé, who finished clinically to make it 2-0.
Morocco tried to respond, but their transitions lacked sharpness and France’s defensive structure remained compact. The final statistics reflected France’s superiority, with Les Bleus producing far more shots and clear attacking actions across the match.
From a tactical perspective, France’s win was built on patience, pressing control and elite individual quality. Morocco showed discipline and fighting spirit, but they struggled to create enough danger in the final third.
With this result, France advance to the semifinals, where they will face Spain. Morocco exit the tournament after another proud campaign, but France’s efficiency and Mbappé’s decisive influence proved the difference.