Al Khor, Qatar – France advanced to the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup after defeating Morocco 2-0 in their quarterfinal match on Saturday, December 10th, at Al Bayt Stadium. The result mirrored the scoreline from the teams’ encounter four years prior, during the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where France also won 2-0.
This marks the second consecutive World Cup tournament where Morocco has been eliminated by France with the same 2-0 scoreline, a notable continuation of a competitive rivalry. The French team, the defending champions, will now face the winner of the England vs. France quarterfinal match in the next round.
Morocco’s Historic Run Ends in Qatar
Morocco’s journey to the quarterfinals was historic, becoming the first African and Arab nation to ever reach this stage of a FIFA World Cup. Their campaign included a stunning upset victory over Spain in the Round of 16, achieved through a penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw. FIFA detailed the dramatic penalty shootout that saw Morocco prevail 3-0. Throughout the tournament, the Moroccan team, managed by Walid Regragui, captivated audiences with their disciplined defense and tactical prowess.
Despite their valiant effort, Morocco struggled to break down a resolute French defense. The Atlas Lions had conceded only one goal prior to the quarterfinal – an own goal – and boasted a strong defensive record throughout the group stage and Round of 16. However, France’s attacking quality ultimately proved too much.
France Secures Semifinal Berth with Second-Half Goals
The match remained goalless at halftime, with Morocco demonstrating their defensive solidity. However, France broke the deadlock in the 75th minute through a goal from Olivier Giroud. Reuters reported that Giroud’s goal made him France’s all-time leading scorer with 52 goals, surpassing Thierry Henry.
France extended their lead five minutes later with a goal from Randal Kolo Muani, sealing the victory. Kolo Muani’s goal, his first for France, came shortly after he entered the pitch as a substitute. This expanded upon an already strong attacking performance from the French side which had previously included Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann.
Key Statistics and Match Details
France dominated possession throughout the match, holding a majority of the ball, according to BBC Sport. They also recorded 13 shots, with five on target, compared to Morocco’s four shots with only one on target. Morocco’s goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, made three saves, while Hugo Lloris, the French captain, had one save to secure the clean sheet.
The match was officiated by Mexican referee Félix Sánchez. No cards were issued to either side during the game. Attendance at Al Bayt Stadium was 68,294.
Looking Ahead: France’s Semifinal Opponent
France will now await the winner of the quarterfinal match between England and Senegal, scheduled for December 11th. The semifinal will be played on December 14th at Al Bayt Stadium. This will be France’s second consecutive World Cup semifinal appearance, having reached the final in 2018 where they defeated Croatia 4-2.
Morocco’s elimination marks the end of a remarkable run for the African side, but their performance in Qatar has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the tournament and global football. They are the first African nation to reach the quarterfinals of the World Cup, a milestone that will inspire future generations of African footballers.
The next confirmed checkpoint is the England vs. Senegal quarterfinal match on December 11th, which will determine France’s opponent in the semifinals. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts on the match and the tournament in the comments section below.