'Let the game begin': France set chessboard for Morocco showdown as Les Bleus chase third straight FIFA World Cup semi-final
Boston, July 9
France signalled their readiness for a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Morocco with a symbolic social media post featuring winger Michael Olise playing chess, as Les Bleus prepare for another high-stakes knockout battle on Thursday.
Sharing a video of Olise deep in thought over a chessboard, the official France football team account on X posted, "Let the game begin. See you tonight."
The message reflected the tactical battle awaiting Didier Deschamps' side as they take on Morocco in a rematch of the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-final, with a place in the last four at stake.
France head into the contest as one of the tournament favourites after winning all five of their matches. Les Bleus topped Group I before overcoming Sweden and Paraguay in the knockout rounds, with captain Kylian Mbappe's penalty proving decisive in a hard-fought 1-0 Round of 16 victory over Paraguay.
The two-time world champions have scored 13 goals during the tournament, boasting one of the competition's most dangerous attacking units featuring Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola. Young midfielder Desire Doue has also emerged as a key figure after winning the decisive penalty in the previous round.
Olise has enjoyed an impressive tournament, registering five assists while also picking up one yellow card, establishing himself as one of France's chief creative outlets heading into the quarter-final.
The match also marks another significant milestone for head coach Didier Deschamps, who is set to manage his 25th FIFA World Cup match, equalling Helmut Schon's long-standing record. The 1998 World Cup-winning captain, who will step down after the tournament, is also chasing his 20th victory as France coach on football's biggest stage.
Standing in France's way are an increasingly confident Morocco side that continues to break new ground for African football.
Ranked seventh in the world, Mohamed Ouahbi's men finished runners-up in Group C before defeating the Netherlands on penalties in the Round of 32 and dispatching co-hosts Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16. Midfielder Azzedine Ounahi starred against Canada with a second-half brace before substitute Soufiane Rahimi added a late third goal.
Morocco arrive unbeaten in their last 10 matches since January's Africa Cup of Nations final and are aiming to secure a first-ever victory over France after failing to win any of their previous six meetings. Their only previous competitive encounter came in the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, where France prevailed 2-0.
The winners of Thursday's contest will book a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, where either Spain or Belgium await.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Tactical chess match indeed! Deschamps is a master strategist, but Morocco's defense is solid. I feel like France might edge it, but I'm rooting for the underdog — go Morocco! 🌍
Look, I respect both teams, but I wish the media would stop hyping France so much. They've been brilliant, yes, but Morocco has shown real character. And as an Indian fan, I love seeing different continents rise — first Asia, now Africa! Let's see if history repeats or Morocco creates a new chapter.
Unpopular opinion: France's attack is overhyped. Paraguay's defense kept Mbappe quiet for most of the match. Morocco's defense is even better — if Ounahi and Amrabat control the midfield, it could be a long night for Les Bleus. 🏆🤔
I just love the chessboard metaphor — reminds me of Anand vs Carlsen! France has all the pieces, but Morocco might just have a checkmate plan. Either way, football wins. 🙌
Honestly, I'm just happy to see such high-quality football. As an Indian, I dream of the day our team reaches this level. France v Morocco is going to be a cracker — skill vs passion, experience vs hunger. My heart says Morocco, my head says France. 😅
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.