France is poised to reach their third consecutive World Cup semi-final as they face Morocco in a Boston quarter-final – a rematch of their 2022 semi-final, which France won 2-0. The winner will advance to play either Spain or Belgium.
The two-time world champions are in blistering form, winning all five tournament matches, scoring 13 goals, and defeating Sweden and Paraguay. Their lethal attack features Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, and Bradley Barcola, with Desire Doue providing a spark off the bench.
This match marks Didier Deschamps’ 25th World Cup game as head coach, equaling Helmut Schon’s record, in what will be his final tournament before stepping down. Morocco continues to make African football history. Unbeaten in ten matches, the “Atlas Lions” advanced from the groups, edged the Netherlands on penalties, and beat co-hosts Canada.
However, coach Mohamed Ouahabi now faces his toughest test yet. Boasting a near full-strength side, Deschamps will likely field an unchanged lineup for France. Manu Kone will continue in midfield for Aurelien Tchouameni, who suffers from a thigh injury, while Marcus Thuram remains unavailable.
On the Moroccan side, fitness doubts loom over Bayern Munich newcomer Ismael Saibari due to a hamstring issue, leaving Soufiane Rahimi ready to deputise. Uncertainty also surrounds defender Chadi Riad, who was previously replaced by Redouane Halhal, meaning star playmaker Brahim Diaz will be heavily tasked with pulling the strings in attack.