France secured its place in the World Cup semifinals after defeating Morocco 2-0. This result marked the first semifinalist decided in the current tournament. The match saw goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, contributing to France’s comfortable performance.
Despite holding only 48 percent of possession, France demonstrated a significant advantage in expected goals, with a 3.04-0.14 edge. They also outshot Morocco 22-5, with 8 shots on goal compared to Morocco’s 1. Both teams had five corners each. This victory highlights France’s continued strong form in the tournament.
Quarterfinal matchups continue
The quarterfinals are set to continue with several anticipated matches. On Friday, Spain will face Belgium at 3 p.m. ET. Spain has shown increasing danger throughout the tournament, though it took until the final minutes to score against Portugal. Belgium’s performance against the United States, where they dominated, raised questions about whether it was an anomaly or a sign of renewed strength. Rudi Costa’s squad had a comeback against Senegal in the Round of 32. Kevin De Bruyne did not play against the United States after being substituted early against Senegal. Jeremy Doku and Romelu Lukaku also entered as substitutes and were effective.
One challenge for Belgium is the absence of Amadou Onana, who is out for the remainder of the tournament due to a significant knee injury. Spain’s ball movement could pose difficulties for Belgium’s midfield and defense. Portugal, a strong defensive team, allowed only three goals in five games, which Spain managed to overcome.
Saturday will feature two quarterfinal games. Norway will play England at 4 p.m. ET. Erling Haaland’s performance in his first World Cup has been notable, with seven goals scored despite missing the group stage finale. His teammates have contributed four goals. England’s center backs, including John Stones and Marc Guehi, are familiar with Haaland from their time as teammates at Manchester City. Ezri Konsa has also faced Haaland while playing for Aston Villa. Norway was described as the better team against Brazil.
The other Saturday match will see Argentina against Switzerland at 9 p.m. ET. Switzerland is making its first quarterfinal appearance since 1954, having defeated Colombia in the Round of 16. Argentina, the defending World Cup champions, have been involved in dramatic knockout-round games. Both teams possess considerable experience. Switzerland is expected to adopt a defensive strategy against Argentina.
Semifinal schedule takes shape
With France’s progression, the semifinal schedule is beginning to form. France is slated to play the winner of the Spain versus Belgium match on Tuesday, July 14, at 3 p.m. ET. The other semifinal will take place on Wednesday, July 15, at 3 p.m. ET, featuring the winners of the Norway/England and Argentina/Switzerland matches.
Morocco, despite their loss to France, had an impressive run in the tournament. They drew against Brazil in the Group Stage, eliminated the Netherlands on penalties in the Round of 32, and defeated Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16. This year’s Morocco team has shown an improved offensive capability compared to four years ago, having scored 10 goals in five games. In 2022, they scored six goals in seven games. While their defensive solidity was a hallmark in 2022, with four shutouts, France’s 2-0 victory marked the first time more than one goal was scored against them in the current tournament.
France’s attack, featuring players like Mbappé, Michael Olise, Dembélé, and Bradley Barcola, has been a key factor in their success. Mbappé is a leading scorer in the tournament. However, the French team’s defense and midfield are considered less strong than in previous years, with their potent attack often compensating for these areas. The quarterfinal stage of the World Cup continues on Friday, July 10, with the Spain vs. Belgium match.
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Source: bleacherreport.com
