France 2-0 Morocco: Miraculous World Cup run put to an end by defending champions

France have advanced to the finals of the World Cup for the second consecutive edition, after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the semi-finals. 

The Atlas Lions headed into the game as massive underdogs, following their wins over Spain and Portugal in the Round of 16 and quarter finals. But, their miraculous run in the competition has now been put to an end by the defending champions. 

France make it through to World Cup finals 

No one had scored against the African side in the entire tournament, except for an own goal conceded against Canada. But, Les Blues were able to find the back of the net twice to get the all-important win.

Instead of sitting deep like they have this tournament, Morocco went out attacking and caused the defending champions all sorts of problems. However, they conceded an early goal, scored by left-back Theo Hernandez. 

Sofyan Amrabat and Antoine Griezmann were all over the park, as the midfield marshals for the teams. Morocco were hit by injuries, with Nayef Aguerd being unable to make it past warm-up while captain Roman Saiss made way after 20 minutes, still carrying an injury sustained from the intense game against Portugal. 

Both goals came through deflections, and considering that Morocco might just have been denied a penalty, there are too many what ifs to take away from the match. Their performance this tournament has been nothing short of phenomenal, but France were able to hold on to their lead with a stroke of luck to make it through. 

The defending champions take on Lionel Messi’s Argentina in what will be a World Cup final for the ages on December 18.