FIFA World Cup 2026: "Pure Joy" in France camp as Mbappe inspires Les Bleus to 3rd straight WC SFs
Boston, July 10
France celebrated their victory over Morocco with jubilant scenes from the locker room, as the players shared moments of pure joy after securing their place in the World Cup semi-finals.
Kylian Mbappe delivered another starring performance as France secured a third consecutive World Cup semi-final berth with a commanding 2-0 victory over Morocco.
"Live from the locker room! Celebrate the victory with the Blues," the France Team wrote in an X post.
"Pure joy," the France Team wrote in another X post.
Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele struck in the second half to send France into the final four of the ongoing World Cup, with Les Bleus reaching their third successive World Cup semi-final. Mbappe was also named Player of the Match, securing the award for the third time in the 2026 tournament.
France grew into the contest and created the better openings before the interval. Kylian Mbappe came close to breaking the deadlock and also missed a penalty opportunity, leaving the score level at half-time.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 60th minute when Mbappe produced a brilliant finish from inside the box, curling the ball beyond Yassine Bounou after a clever assist from Desire Doue to put France ahead.
The goal, Mbappe's eighth of the tournament, draws him level with Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot.
France doubled their advantage in the 66th minute through Ousmane Dembele, who fired at goal with his right foot from outside the box. Bounou got a hand but was unable to stop it.
This was the Fifth goal of the FIFA World Cup 2026 for Dembele. The goal gave Didier Deschamps' side a valuable cushion in the closing stages.
Morocco continued to fight until the final whistle, but France's experience and composure saw them protect their lead and secure a semi-final place. The result ends Morocco's impressive run after another historic World Cup campaign, while France move one step closer to their title.
The victory sets up France's semi-final clash against either Spain or Belgium.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Morocco's run was historic for Africa and the Arab world. They should hold their heads high after beating Portugal, Spain, and Nigeria. France was just too clinical. But what a tournament this has been! The level of football in 2026 is insane.
Honestly, France are playing like machines. But I feel for Morocco - they had so much heart and belief. The fact that they reached the semis as an underdog team is inspirational for countries like India. It shows that with proper planning and grassroots development, anything is possible. Now we need to focus on our own football growth! 🙏
Mbappe vs. Messi for the Golden Boot... what a storyline! France's third consecutive semi-final is remarkable consistency. But I find it a bit concerning how dependent they are on individual brilliance sometimes. Against a more organized defense, they might struggle. Still, credit where it's due - Deschamps has built a winning machine.
The energy from the France locker room videos is contagious. "Pure joy" indeed! 🥳 As a neutral fan, I'm loving this World Cup. The semi-final against Spain/Belgium should be epic. But I'm a bit tired of Mbappe being the main character every game - would love to see someone else step up for a change!
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