Can Morocco Stop France’s World Cup Dominance?
Canada has a score to settle, and Morocco carries the sting of ending their tournament. As France and Morocco prepare for their July 9 quarter-final at Gillette Stadium in Boston (4 p.m. EST), Canadian fans will be watching the team that ended their dream with a ruthless 3-0 victory in the last 16, despite Morocco managing only four shots on target.
Morocco weathered Canada’s first-half pressure before Azzedine Ounahi and Soufiane Rahimi sealed the win in the second half. Now, the Atlas Lions stand between France and a semifinal berth, with France aiming to become the third nation ever to reach three consecutive World Cup semi-finals.
This matchup is a direct rematch of the 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinal in Qatar, where France won 2-0. Morocco, unbeaten in 10 matches since the AFCON final, arrives red-hot and seeking revenge. France, meanwhile, remains unbeaten in 12 competitive matches and has won seven straight, proving they are the clear tournament favorites.
| Statistic | France | Morocco |
|---|---|---|
| Recent Unbeaten Streak | 12 matches | 10 matches |
| World Cup Wins | 7 consecutive | Unbeaten since AFCON |
| 2022 Semifinal Result | Won 2-0 | Lost 2-0 |
Kylian Mbappé is the standout player for France, scoring seven goals in this tournament and becoming one of only two players ever to score seven or more goals in two separate World Cups, alongside Lionel Messi. His penalty against Paraguay in the round of 16 was the key to France’s narrow victory over a stubborn opponent.
Morocco faces a significant challenge with star striker Ismael Saibari, a major doubt due to a hamstring injury after coming off early against Canada. This injury severely blunts Morocco’s attacking threat, leaving them without a focal point to break down France’s defense.
Bookmakers have made France heavy favorites on the moneyline, with Morocco listed as sizeable underdogs and the draw sitting well behind. The betting markets lean toward a lower-scoring game, with the total set around 2.5 goals. Given that thirteen of France’s last 16 wins came by two-plus goal margins, while seven of Morocco’s last nine World Cup defeats came by a single goal, a 1-0 or 2-0 France win is the smart prediction.
France will control the tempo, Morocco will defend deep and dangerous, and Mbappé will likely find the key. However, Morocco is a team built to spoil a favorite’s party—just ask Canada. Prediction: France 2, Morocco 0, though don’t be shocked if the Atlas Lions drag it to penalties and break more hearts.
