Mbappe, Dembele Fire France Past Morocco into 2026 FIFA World Cup Semi-finals
France ended Morocco’s dream of becoming the last African nation standing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory in Thursday’s quarter-final clash at Boston Stadium.
After a tense goalless first half, Didier Deschamps’ men found their cutting edge through captain Kylian Mbappe before Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele sealed the victory six minutes later to send Les Bleus into the last four.
Mbappe had earlier squandered a golden opportunity to put France ahead after winning a penalty when he was brought down by Morocco defender Noussair Mazraoui.
However, goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced a comfortable save to keep the Atlas Lions level before halftime.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 60th minute. Receiving a pass from Désiré Doué, Mbappe curled a brilliant effort beyond Bounou from the edge of the penalty area for his eighth goal of the tournament.
France doubled their advantage in the 66th minute when Mbappe turned provider, releasing Dembele, who drove at the Moroccan defence before firing a low shot that slipped through Bounou despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to the ball.
The victory sends France into another FIFA World Cup semi-final, where they will face the winners of the quarter-final between Spain and Belgium in Dallas.
Mbappe’s latest strike also saw him draw level with Lionel Messi on eight goals at the tournament, while moving to 20 career FIFA World Cup goals—just one behind Messi’s all-time record of 21.
The French captain currently leads the race for the Golden Boot courtesy of his superior assist tally.
Morocco, Africa’s sole remaining representative in the competition, fought bravely but ultimately lacked the attacking quality to trouble a disciplined French side, bowing out with their heads held high after another memorable World Cup campaign.
France will now continue their quest for a third FIFA World Cup title, while Morocco’s inspiring run comes to an end at the quarter-final stage.
