France became the first team to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after defeating Morocco 2-0, while the remaining quarter-final matches continue in the race for the trophy.
France became the first team to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the opening quarter-final on Thursday night (Friday morning IST), while the remaining last-eight clashes are set to continue over the coming days.
France 2-0 Morocco
France produced another clinical display to eliminate Morocco and secure a place in their third consecutive FIFA World Cup semi-final.
After a tightly contested opening period, Kylian Mbappé once again proved the difference-maker. The French captain broke the deadlock before Ousmane Dembélé doubled the advantage, sealing a comfortable victory for Didier Deschamps’ side. Morocco defended resolutely for long spells but struggled to cope with France’s pace and attacking quality.
Mbappé’s latest goal also strengthened his position among the tournament’s leading scorers as France continued their impressive march towards another World Cup title. The victory extends Les Bleus’ remarkable consistency on football’s biggest stage, with another semi-final appearance now secured.
Quarter-final Picture
France become the first nation to reach the semi-finals, while the remaining quarter-finals promise more blockbuster encounters.
The upcoming fixtures include:
- Spain vs Belgium
- England vs Norway
- Argentina vs Switzerland
Defending champions Argentina will rely on Lionel Messi’s outstanding form as they face Switzerland, while England meet an in-form Norway side led by Erling Haaland. Spain, meanwhile, take on Belgium in another heavyweight European clash as the race for the World Cup trophy intensifies.
Road to the Final
With France safely through, only three semi-final places remain available. The expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup has already delivered numerous surprises, dramatic knockout matches and outstanding individual performances, and the tournament now enters its decisive stage with football’s biggest prize firmly in sight.
