Al Khor, Qatar, Dec 14 (Reuters/GNA) – France held their nerve to overcome a gallant Moroccan effort and secure an opportunity to retain their World Cup crown, beating the north Africans 2-0 in Wednesday’s semi-final to set up a heavyweight showdown with Argentina.
Goals from Theo Hernandez and substitute Randal Kolo Muani put the French into a fourth World Cup final and gave them the chance to become the first team to retain the title since Brazil 60 years ago.
It was as much as their talent-laden squad deserved as they caught Morocco with an early sucker punch and finished off the job 11 minutes from time, setting up a meeting with Argentina on Sunday after Lionel Messi’s team beat Croatia 3-0 in the first semi-final.
“There’s emotion, there’s pride, there’s going to be a final step, we’ve been together with the players for a month, it’s never easy, there’s happiness so far,” said coach Didier Deschamps.
France found themselves in an absorbing battle as Morocco showed them no deference and made many chances of their own, coming close to an equaliser.
The world champions’ defence had to scramble several times, including a late goalline clearance and Morocco struck the post with a spectacular bicycle effort.
Finishing, however, proved the fundamental difference, and the game tilted the way of the world champions after five minutes.
GNA
Credit: Reuters